Bicyclist fatally struck by pickup truck

A bicyclist died Sunday night after turning in front of a pickup truck on U.S. 90 northeast of Jennings.

The crash happened shortly after 9 p.m. on U.S. 90 near Triangle Shell Road.

Shawn Maris, 49, of Mermentau was reportedly riding a bicycle eastbound on U.S. 90 when he turned in front of a 2013 GMC Sierra which was also traveling eastbound on U.S. 90, according to Louisiana State Police Troop D spokesperson Trooper First Class Matt Gaspard.

A preliminary investigation found that Maris turned left in front of the truck as it passed his location, Gaspard said.

The driver of the truck was unable to avoid a collision and struck the bicycle causing Maris to be ejected,

Troopers were able to determine that the bicycle was not equipped with reflectors or lights at the time of the crash, he said.

Maris, who was not wearing a helmet, received fatal injuries. He died at the scene.

The driver of the truck, who was properly restrained, was not injured.

Standard toxicology samples were collected and submitted to analysis.

The crash remains under investigation.

Troopers remind bicyclists that Louisiana law classified bicycles as a vehicle and requires operators to follow the same rules that apply to motorists.

Troopers also stress the importance of wearing an approved helmet while operating a bicycle.