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Cyclist Killed by Truck in Milan; Driver Reported for Road Homicide

Police are reviewing street-camera footage to decide whether the rider was in the truck’s blind spot or on the crosswalk because that finding will determine criminal responsibility.

Overview

  • A 67-year-old cyclist, identified as Laura Ghirardi, was struck by a truck turning right at the intersection of via Colleoni and via Gattamelata on Tuesday, July 7, and died later that day at Ospedale Niguarda.
  • The 33-year-old truck driver stopped at the scene, tested negative for alcohol, and has been formally reported for omicidio stradale, the Italian criminal charge for road homicide that can carry serious penalties.
  • Investigators are examining street-camera footage, skid marks and other evidence to resolve a central question about the crash dynamics: whether Ghirardi was riding beside the truck in its blind spot or crossing on the zebra crossing where cyclists are legally required to dismount.
  • Authorities say the vehicle was equipped with blind-spot sensors as required by regulation, a technical detail that will be weighed alongside physical evidence as the inquiry proceeds.
  • The collision occurred in an area recently modified by the Piazze Aperte project, which partly closed via Gattamelata and added a pedestrian zone near a school, a local change officials may review for its effect on traffic patterns and safety.