70-Year-Old Somerville Cyclist Killed After Driver 'Doored' Him: Police

Somerville police identified the 70-year-old cyclist who died over the weekend after a parked driver opened his car door into the bike rider and caused him to crash.

Stephen Conley died in this area of Broadway in Somerville when a car opened its door into the bike lane as he was riding by.
Photo Credit: *Google Maps Street View*

Josh Lanier

08/15/2022 2:49 p.m.

Stephen Conley of Somerville was riding his bike on the Broadway bike lane just before 11:30 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 12, when a Land Rover's driver-side door flew open right in front of him, the Middlesex District Attorney's Office said. Conley suffered life-threatening injuries in the crash.

Responders rushed him to Mass General, but doctors could not save his life. Conley died on Saturday, police said.

Cyclists call this phenomenon getting "doored," and it is a common occurrence. Hundreds of bike riders are injured from it every year, according to multiple studies.

“It is unfortunate for the community that we have to report this accident," said Somerville Police Chief Charles Femino. "The exact circumstances of how and why this accident occurred remain under investigation, and our condolences remain with the family and friends of the victim,”

The driver of the Land Rover remained at the scene and is cooperating with the investigation, authorities added.

Officials have not filed any charges in this case.

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