Drunk Driver Slams into Cyclists in Alleged Hit-and-Run Incident at DFW Airport

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
20/06/2024 23h11

In a shocking incident captured on camera, a suspected drunk driver crashed into a group of cyclists at DFW Airport, running over one of them. The harrowing video footage has left many viewers disturbed.

According to authorities, the driver, identified as 31-year-old Benjamin Hylander, had several empty beer cans in his car at the time of the incident. Hylander now faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and driving while intoxicated.

The incident occurred on Monday evening when the cyclists were riding near DFW Airport. The video, taken from the perspective of another cyclist, shows the moment the car crashes into the man and woman, causing the man to fall and be subsequently run over by the vehicle. Both victims have been discharged from the hospital, but their road to recovery, both physically and mentally, is expected to be challenging.

Tom Geppert, a 69-year-old retired physician and avid cyclist, was one of the victims. Geppert, who was riding with the group, recounted the terrifying experience of being struck from behind and losing consciousness. He credits his bike with potentially saving his life, as it elevated the car, minimizing the impact.

Geppert sustained injuries including a fractured rib, a hamstring injury, and a concussion. Despite not remembering being run over, Geppert watched the footage and expressed gratitude for still being alive. The other injured cyclist received immediate medical attention at the scene.

Following the hit-and-run, fellow cyclists pursued the driver to a nearby convenience store parking lot and captured a photo of Hylander's subsequent arrest by DFW Airport Police. According to the arrest report, Hylander attempted to approach emergency medical personnel treating Geppert, prompting police intervention.

The arrest affidavit revealed that Hylander confessed to consuming beer before the crash. Authorities found six empty cans of Voodoo Ranger Juice Force in his backpack and two cans of Coors Light near his vehicle. Hylander reportedly failed field sobriety and breathalyzer tests.

Hylander, identified as an American Airlines cargo worker, now faces two counts of intoxication assault with a vehicle and two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Despite the traumatizing incident, Geppert expressed determination to continue cycling in the future, grateful for the support and assistance provided by his fellow cyclists who tended to his injuries and helped apprehend the suspect.

The shocking incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by drunk driving and highlights the importance of vigilance on the roads. Authorities continue to investigate the incident thoroughly, seeking justice for the victims and ensuring that incidents like these are prevented in the future.

Reckless actions like these have severe consequences, not just for those directly involved but for the overall safety of all road users.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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