Eric Gilbert Killed by Impaired Driver While Bicycling

Mesa, Arizona—Eric Gilbert was killed while riding his bicycle yesterday evening near University and 105th Place.

Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department accident investigators report that Michael David Mullins, age 39, reportedly lost control of the borrowed minivan he was driving, drove onto a curb, and hit a mailbox before striking Mr. Gilbert.  Mr. Gilbert was rushed to a nearby hospital where he died about an hour later.

Mullins fled the scene.  The abandoned minivan was recovered about a half mile away.  Two days later, Mullins was apprehended.  He reportedly told MCSO accident investigators that he fled because there were outstanding warrants against him from other law enforcement agencies.  He also reportedly told authorities that he was under the influence of heroin at the time of the crash.

We extend our condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Gilbert over this tragic loss.