MERRITT ISLAND, Florida — The Florida Highway Patrol is reporting that 44-year-old Colin P. Bateman of Cocoa, Florida died as a result of the injuries he sustained after being hit by an SUV while riding his bicycle in north Merritt Island, Florida, near the Kennedy Space Center gate.
FHP says that around 8:40 a.m. this morning, Bateman was riding his bicycle northbound on State Road 3 in the outside lane. Meanwhile, 46-year-old Yvonne M. Price of Orlando, Florida was driving a 2004 Honda CRV northbound on State Road 3 some distance behind Bateman.
According to FHP, Price had looked to her left for a moment to check a vehicle she was passing and did not observe how rapidly she was gaining on Bateman. Before Price had turned to look forward again, the Honda CRV collided the right side of the bicycle.
FHP says that alcohol was not a factor in the accident.
Charges are pending an investigation.
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That's why people need to give bicyclists plenty of room. You never know...how sad.
I will miss you my friend as will my daughter, your students and the entire SCUBA club. All of our love and prayers go to Melanie and the kidsMichael, Adrienne and Meaghan Sylver
State Road 3 is known as the KSC 500 during both am and pm rush hour. I'm usually the slowest one on the road at 5mph over the speed limit. I wonder if speed or aggressive driving played a factor. There are never any BCSO or KSC SF out there enforcing speeds. I think those of us who have driven this road and never complained need to look in the mirror.
Dr. Bateman, we will miss you very much. You were such a caring person to your wife and kids. You will be in our hearts forever. You were a great diver and I will never forget you. I send my love to Mel and the kids. Rest in peace. Camila Mirow
love you dr.b, you were the best teacher and always made the classroom a positive and enjoyable place. RIP
My prayers go out to the family God Bless you all during this difficult time. R.I.P Mr. Bateman
SR 3 is a busy road. There are not enough bike routes for bike enthusiasts. This is a tragedy all the way around.
I had the honor and pleasure of knowing,and coaching with Colin at Gulliver Prep in Miami. He was a great teacher, a motivating coach,and dedicated father. I am sad for his wife and children who will be without a man of great leaderhsip,love and integrity. Colin was a Crimson Tide swimmer, and a devoted Bama fan. We have lost a Good Man. Role Tide!!! I will him. Peter Prins
So sad. Colin was a very bright man who loved life and his family!! He waa a great motivator and knew what really matters. Only the good die young. I remember him being on the deck of the pool and having a smile on his face.
RIP Dr. Bateman. He was my first Chemistry professor and I owe all of my drive to pursue a Chemistry career to him!