Log In


Reset Password
News Education Local News Nation & World New Mexico

Cyclist hospitalized after accident

Mike Dietzman, a coach for the Durango Devo cycling program and the Durango Nordic Ski Club, suffered multiple broken bones and lacerations in a cycling accident involving a car Tuesday night during a group training ride.

Dietzman was in intensive care until Wednesday night, his wife, Deb Sussex said. David Bruzzese, spokesman for Mercy, said Dietzman was in fair condition Wednesday night.

He has head and neck injuries and several broken bones, including ribs, Amy Haggart, executive director of Devo, said. Doctors are optimistic he will recover fully.

Dietzman was on what’s known locally as the weekly “worlds” ride – not Devo-sanctioned – heading at high speeds with a group down U.S. Highway 160 when a vehicle heading uphill turned in front of the cyclists into an apartment complex east of Wildcat Canyon Road (County Road 141), according to another rider, Gerry Geraghty. Dietzman was unable to avoid the vehicle and slammed into the back passenger-side window and door panel.

A doctor on the ride helped stabilize him, and emergency responders took him to Mercy.

Devo is making a care package to take to Dietzman at Mercy today. Those who wish to contribute can drop off notes, cards and gifts at the Devo box at Durango Cyclery, 143 E. 13th St., or the Devo office, 130 Rockpoint Drive in the Durango Tech Center.

Herald Staff



Reader Comments