A cyclist died following a collision with a dump truck at St. Andrews Avenue and East Second Street shortly after 7 a.m. Friday morning.
North Vancouver man Brian Hughes, 55, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to police.
A bicycle was visible beneath the dump truck, which was facing north, two hours after the crash. The cyclist’s body was on the street a few feet from the curb.
The dump truck’s driver stayed at the scene as police investigated the cause of the collision.
The investigation is in “early stages,” according to North Vancouver RCMP Cpl. Richard De Jong, who asked witnesses to the early-morning crash to come forward.
The area “has not been a problem intersection,” said North Vancouver RCMP Sgt. Doug Trousdell. However, a few neighbours who assembled as the RCMP’s collision analysts attended the scene said they’ve witnessed numerous close calls at the spot.
“It’s a constant occurrence,” said neighbour Jessica Ferguson. “It’s horrifying to see it.”
The foliage, hydro pole and lamppost on the northwest corner obscure vision and force drivers heading east to creep past the Second Street stop sign, according to neighbour Kevin Hooper. “If you stop your car there you can’t see what’s coming down that hill,” Hooper said, adding many motorists end up doing a rolling stop at the corner.
While speed bumps on East Second Street have helped to limit speeding, the corner continues to be a problem, said 15-year area resident Ivan Leonard.
Approximately 2,193 cars travel in either direction between St. Georges and St. Andrews, according to a 2016 Moodyville transportation study.
The collision, which occurred during Bike to Work Week, is a reminder of the need for better protection for cyclists, according to Tony Valente, spokeswoman for cycling advocacy group HUB North Shore.
“The real priority is separation from cars,” Valente said, adding he lives near the intersection.
Hughes’ colleagues and friends have offered their condolences to his family.
Reached for comment, sister Shari Hughes extended her thanks to first responders, and to family and friends for all of their support.
Hughes worked for Northwest Hydraulic Consultants for 30 years, according to a release from the company.
“Brian was widely respected by his peers and deeply admired by all of us who had the privilege of knowing him,” stated the release.
