The San Diego City Attorney has charged a man with vehicular manslaughter in the death of Charles Gilbreth, who was hit by a car while riding his bike on Montezuma Road.
Frances Henry Zegler was driving his car last April when he reportedly entered the bike lane and struck Gilbreth from behind, killing him. The city attorney has accused the 40-year-old Zegler of manslaughter and a trial is scheduled to begin on April 15.
Gilbreth, who was 63 when he died, quickly became a symbol of the dangers facing cyclists on San Diego's heavily-traveled streets. Bike advocates held a memorial ride to City Hall. They chained a white "ghost bike" to a pole near the place where he died. And they continue to lobby for greater protections, especially on Montezuma Road.
Though charges were filed, cyclists note that Zegler faces only a misdemeanor, and he is not accused of gross negligence. A readiness hearing will take place late this month, where the defendant may enter a plea to avoid a trial.
