Driver receives probation for striking bicyclist

Santa Fe Municipal Court Judge Virginia Vigil sentenced a man Friday to 90 days of unsupervised probation after finding him guilty of careless driving in a Nov. 10 crash that severely injured professional cyclist Irena Ossola.

The sentencing documents also say the driver, Hector Gonzalez, must pay $156 in court fees and costs, but indicate Vigil might have suspended that penalty. Vigil did not return a phone message left Friday evening seeking clarification on whether she ordered Gonzales to pay the court costs.

Gonzales struck Ossola on West Alameda Street, causing injuries that required emergency responders to airlift her to the University of New Mexico Hospital in Albuquerque, according to police.

The cyclist has been recovering, but her injuries have impeded her promising career on the international racing circuit.

The crash also sparked anger toward the criminal justice system in Santa Fe by members of the cycling community, some of whom have said punishments for motorists who strike cyclists are not harsh enough.

A crash report says Gonzalez’s vehicle collided with Ossola as he was making a left turn onto Quail View Lane. He told police he was blinded by the evening sun at the time and didn’t see Ossola.

Through a friend, Ossola declined to comment Friday on Gonzalez’s sentence.

During his probationary period, Gonzalez is prohibited from having any criminal or traffic offenses, and he must notify the court of any change of address or telephone number.

If Gonzalez violates the terms of his probation, he risks having a bench warrant issued for his arrest.

The sentencing documents indicate Gonzales made pleas of both guilty and no contest to the charge. Gonzalez did not return a phone message left Friday seeking comment.

He also declined to comment on the case during an inperson interview with on Thursday.

Contact Justin Horwath at 505-986-3017 or jhorwath@ sfnewmexican.com.