Cyclist struck by dump truck dies

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - A bicyclist died Monday afternoon when a dump truck struck him on the south side, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officials say.

The crash happened at 12:48 p.m. near the intersection of Banta Road and Madison Avenue.

According to the police report, the bicyclist, Brian Lawson, was riding southbound on the sidewalk when the dump truck turned right onto Madison.

The truck driver told offices he made a wide right turn all the way over into the far left lane next to the median due to the large truck’s turning radius.

He said he felt he truck go over what he described like a felt “trash bag.” After stopping in the far right lane next to the sidewalk, the driver got out and discovered Lawson lying on the ground.

Lawson was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Fatal Alcohol Crash Team was sent to the scene, but IMPD officials say alcohol isn't believed to have been a factor in the accident. Police tell 24-Hour News 8 Lawson appears to have been at fault for the crash.

A memorial sprouted up Tuesday, adorned with pictures of Lawson.