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Bicyclist in critical condition following east side hit-and-run

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – Police are investigating the hit-and-run of a bicyclist early Wednesday near Shadeland Avenue and East 30th Street.

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department says a witness found a man who had been struck in the middle of the street at approximately 12:45 a.m. and stopped to call police.

Police said 33-year-old Bronson Gooch who was hit was riding his bicycle south on Shadeland Avenue. Gooch is in critical condition at Sidney & Lois Eskenazi Hospital.

Officers stated the bicycle was not found at the scene, but they believe it may have stuck to the vehicle. An IMPD spokesman on Wednesday afternoon said police are looking for a 1990 to 1995 Chevrolet Astro or GMC Safari of an unknown color. The vehicle would have heavy front-end damage that includes the hood and windshield.

Police say the debris shows Gooch could have been hit closer to the sidewalk. The witness who called 911 stayed on the scene to help with the investigation. 

Investigators said they planned to check the surrounding area stores and buildings for security camera footage.

IMPD Capt. Michael Elder said he hopes the person who hit the victim will do the right thing. 

“We’re asking if you left the scene and you thought you hit something, but you aren’t sure, to call the police department,” said Elder. “If you were in the area and maybe saw something, we’re asking you to call 317-262-TIPS (8477).”

People who live in the area are asking for the same thing.

“It is sad you know, it is something they’ve got to live with for the rest of their life. They’ve got to live with that on their head, on their conscience so it is going to eat them up,” said resident Tyler Wilson.