Hit-and-run accident sends bicyclist to the hospital

The Salt Lake County Sherriff's Office is investigating a hit-and-run accident that sent a 57-year-old bicyclist to the hospital Thursday evening.

Just before 8 p.m., the man was riding his bike north on Wasatch Boulevard near 6200 South when a car going the opposite direction crossed the centerline and hit the bicycle head on, Salt Lake County Sheriff's Lt. Don Hutson said.

"According to witnesses the driver got out, analyzed the situation and then took off northbound on Wasatch Boulevard and just left the guy laying there in the road," Hutson said.

Witnesses said the car appeared to be a newer white, two-door model, possibly a BMW. Hutson said witnesses reported the car appeared to be occupied by a young man and woman.

During the accident, the cyclist rolled up onto the car and hit the windshield, causing him to suffer some broken bones and head injuries. He was taken by ambulance to a local hospital in critical condition but Hutson said his injuries did not appear to be life threatening.

The Sheriff's Office hopes the damage done to the car helps lead to tracking down the car's driver.

"The damage to the car is in the front bumper and a shattered windshield," Hutson said.

Anyone with information can contact the Sheriff's Office at 801-743-7000.

— Ethan Thomas