Charges were filed today against a man involved in last week's hit-and-run in South Bend. 21-year-old Shane Ryan McGee is charged with failing to stop at an accident resulting in death. Police say McGee hit 40-year-old Patrick Sawyer, while Sawyer was riding his bike on Cleveland Road. Sawyer died from his injuries early Monday.

Patrick Sawyer was a husband, father of four, an avid kayaker and cyclist, to name just a few things. His family is hoping others can learn from his tragic death and be more aware of cyclists on the roads.

Patrick was a familiar face in South Bend. You may have seen him paddling along the St. Joseph River, riding his bike in town, or enjoying time with his family. He was also just a few weeks away from graduating from IUSB with a nursing degree, a career change he was passionate about. “There's just one word. We all loved Patrick. He was just great. That word describes him well,” says Marta Makielski, with the IUSB Nursing Program.

“There are so many reasons why this is a tough thing for the cycling community and the paddling community, just an amazing person. If you meet him, got to know him right away, just so easy to talk to,” says Henry Scott, a commuter cyclist who knew Patrick.

From acquaintances to good friends, all say Patrick's zest for life, family, health and the environment are what make this loss especially devastating.

Police say Patrick was following all the rules, riding with a helmet, a reflective vest, and lights when he was hit from behind by 21-year-old Shane Ryan McGee.

Friends say it's a hit and run accident that could have been avoided. “We need education all around, bicyclists to follow the rules better, to yield when they should; but in this case, we just need to slow down and follow the rules of the road and just be fully present while driving,” says Scott.

The Sawyer family is encouraging others to take caution when hitting the road, so no one has to deal with the loss they've been dealt. “Just ask motorists to think of driving-- that you're operating a very, very dangerous vehicle-- and you are risking the lives of other people if you aren't fully aware while driving,” adds Scott.

The family established a website dedicated to Patrick: (www.patrick.sawyersweb.com)
Patrick’s visitation and funeral services are posted on the family’s site.

A family friend tells Newscenter 16 that a Pat Sawyer Memorial Ride is being organized for next Tuesday. Details are still being finalized. Meantime, the owner of Outpost Sports is putting a challenge out to local bike shops, asking cyclists to help raise money for the Sawyer Memorial Fund. The money will go to help Patrick's four children.

Other helpful cycling related websites:
www.bikemichiana.org
www.mapmyride.com