Cyclist killed after hit by car

By Everett Brazil, III

The Newkirk Herald Journal

NEWKIRK — A cyclist was killed early in the morning Thursday, Dec. 5, after being hit from behind by an inattentive driver.

The accident occurred about 8 a.m. on U.S. Highway 77, just north of Adobe Road, south of Newkirk.

Allen Breaux, of Wichita, Kan., was traveling northbound on the highway in the east lane, when he was approached from behind by Cherie Carriere, Ponca City. Carriere struck Breaux from behind, and both vehicles exited the road to the right, according to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP).

The OHP, Newkirk Fire Department and Kay County Sheriff’s Office arrived on the scene shortly afterward, and Breaux was pronounced dead at the scene, due to head and trunk internal injuries. Breaux was not wearing a helmet, according to the OHP’s report.

Carriere did not sustain injuries. She received a citation for inattentive driving, according to Newkirk Fire Chief Adam Longcrier.

First responders caution drivers to pay attention when driving to prevent injuries to bicyclists and motorcyclists.

“It is important to pay attention when you’re driving.” Longcrier said. “You have to pay attention, because on the highway, the cyclist has the same rights as cars do. Just like motorcycles, you can miss them.”