Driver Charged in Cyclist’s Death
November 5, 2009 • By The Breeze,
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HARRISONBURG, Va. — Tuesday, police charged Jessica Chandler, 22, of Port Republic, with reckless driving after she allegedly hit and killed a cyclist Aug. 24.
The charge comes more than two months after the death of cyclist Dr. Joseph Mirenda, 49, of Virginia Beach.
Mirenda had been riding 50 miles from Wintergreen to Harrisonburg to surprise his son Nic Mirenda, a JMU freshman.
Police looked at Chandler’s cell phone records to determine if she had been texting or talking on the phone at the time of the incident, which could have resulted in a more serious charge.
“I’m glad she didn’t get a felony or anything like that,” Nic said. “She’s already going through a lot, and she obviously didn’t do it on purpose.”
He said he learned this objective attitude from his father.
“Just trying to imagine being in the driver’s standpoint,” Nic said, “I wouldn’t be able to live with myself.”
During his ride, Joseph Mirenda was struck from behind by Chandler, who was driving a Ford Taurus, about a mile east of Cross Keys Road.
The past two months have been a rollercoaster here at JMU for Nic, but staying busy with schoolwork has helped him get through.
“Maybe the worst is yet to come,” Nic said. “I haven’t been home a lot, and I think that’s when it’ll hit me.”
He is planning a bike race next year in his father’s memory, possibly following the same route his father took.
Staff reports
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Nic,
You’re an absolute saint for taking such a rational and merciful viewpoint towards this situation. We need more people like you in this world.
You’re the best son in the world, Nic. I am so proud of you! I hope you know how proud your dad would be of you as well.