Crime Stoppers is asking for the public's help in identifying the driver responsible for Debra Purcaro's death.
Purcaro was a member of the Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club. The reward for information leading to an arrest of the driver has been increased with $3000 being donated by the bicycle club in addition to the reward offered by SWFL Crime Stoppers.
On March 14, at 8:30 am, two cyclists were participating in an annual club event that originated from Caloosahatchee Region Park. The cyclists were traveling eastbound on North River Road in Alva, when they were struck from behind by a vehicle near the intersection of Sands Rd and North River Road.
The vehicle did not stop to render aid after the collision and left the cyclists on the side of the road. The next group of cyclists arrived at the accident scene about 30 minutes later and called first responders.
Purcaro, 64, passed away at the scene and Cristin Madden, 49, was stabilized and rushed to Lee Health where she continues to recover from serious injuries.
According to the club, all riders were following the laws of the road and their bicycles were equipped with tail lights for safety.
Florida Highway Patrol continues to investigate. Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club members have cameras installed on the front and rear of bicycles. This footage has been collected by FHP for analysis to assist with the investigation.
Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club doubled down on the $3,000.00 reward offered by Crime Stoppers bringing the total reward to $6,000.00 for information obtained leading to the arrest of the person or persons who committed this crime. Please contact *FHP or Crime Stoppers 1-800-780-TIPS or contact the Lee County Sheriff’s office with any information.
