Four bicyclists were rushed to the hospital after an awful crash in Venice.
The Florida Highway Patrol says an elderly woman slammed into the group with her car.
It was a mangled, chaotic and horrifying scene along a busy road in Venice.
“I’ve never seen anything like this,” said Venice resident Jo Ann Stapleton.
Officials say at around 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, four bicyclists were hit by a vehicle while traveling east on center road.
FHP tells us the driver was an elderly woman. Three men and one woman were riding their bikes when they were hit.
“At some point, preliminary investigation shows they were making a lane change from the outside lane to the inside lane. During the course of that transition of that lane change is when they were struck,” said FHP Lt. Greg Bueno.
The bicyclists were rushed to the hospital in critical condition.
They have been identified as Sarah Calabrese, 55, of Venice, Jack Harrington, 57, of Englewood, John Ustruck, 60, of North Venice, and John Ustruck, 60, also of North Venice.
This area is popular among bicyclists. Snowbird season is now in full swing and locals tell us the roads have become congested.
“If I were in charge I would definitely roll the speed limits back and I would ensure that people slow down,” said resident Victoria Bischof.
Officials are still trying to piece together the events leading up to the accident to find out who was at fault.
“We’re gonna assess the driver for her ability to drive a vehicle,” said Lt. Bueno.
It’s a reminder to be careful around bicyclists.
“We have to be cognizant of their presence on the road. They are allowed to be out here. However, they have rules they must follow as well,” said Lt. Bueno.
Many are praying for a swift recovery. And they’re hopeful everyone learns a lesson from this.
“Be careful. Be careful when you drive,” said Stapleton.
Identities have not been released at this time. It’s unclear if charges will be filed.