DUI driver arrested after fatally hitting cyclist in Boca Raton
BOCA RATON, FL – A 35-year-old was charged with DUI after running over a 41-year-old man riding a bicycle along Red Reef Park, which claimed the male cyclist’s life Sunday.
This collision occurred before 7:45 a.m. in the 1400th block of North Ocean Boulevard, according to WPTV. Preliminary details, as told by an eyewitness who expressed what happened, said the 35-year-old man, later identified as Thomas Vayianos, from New Jersey, said he was swerving in and out of lanes as he drove his SUV when he collided with the 41-year-old man, later identified as Felipe Soares de Moraes.
Once the SUV rear-ended the bicycle, Soares de Moraes was immediately thrown from his bicycle and immediately succumbed to fatal wounds.
Boca Raton confirmed that Vayianos failed numerous sobriety tests and claimed he was unaware that he struck the victim with his vehicle. Police did book Vayianos into custody. Prior to Vayianos’ arrest, he told officers he was taking Adderall and Vyvanse, medicines commonly taken to aid with ADHD disorder, and Gabapentin, which is an anti-seizure medication.
As of Monday, a judge set Vayianos’ bond at $150,000 and ruled that he shall have no access to alcohol, illegal substances, non-prescription drugs, and weapons. In addition, he will have, under no circumstance, any contact with the eyewitnesses as well as Soares de Moraes’ family and is being subjected to unannounced drug testing.
The Boca Raton bicycle accident lawyers of Schuler, Weisser, Zoeller, Overbeck & Baxter P.A. have provided this story for informational purposes only, and it should not be construed as legal advice. However, if you or someone you love has been injured in a collision that was someone else’s fault, we would like to discuss your options for pursuing financial compensation at your convenience. Contact our offices today for a free consultation by calling 561.689.8180 or filling out our online contact form.
