SCARBOROUGH, ME – Authorities are searching for the driver of a silver SUV involved in a fatal hit-and-run crash that killed a bicyclist early Friday morning in Scarborough. The incident occurred shortly before 4 a.m. near Southgate Road on Route 1 South, a stretch of road known for both vehicular and cycling traffic.
The bicyclist, identified by police as 59-year-old Howard Gribbin, was struck by the vehicle and later transported to Maine Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries. Scarborough Police say the SUV involved likely sustained significant front-end damage and are asking the public for help in locating the vehicle and the driver.
Route 1 between Haigis Parkway and Payne Road was temporarily shut down for approximately three hours while investigators processed the scene. The road has since reopened.
The incident has sparked renewed concern among cycling advocates and local residents. Andrew Zarro, Executive Director of the Bicycle Coalition of Maine, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy.
“Whether it’s a fatality like it was today or a major or minor incident, it’s heartbreaking. We hate to see this happen,” Zarro said.
So far this year, the Bicycle Coalition of Maine reports 56 crashes involving cyclists, including two fatalities statewide. Many of these, Zarro says, are the result of distracted driving—a persistent and growing issue.
Local cyclists also cite hazardous road conditions, such as potholes, as contributing factors.
“If I have to swerve out of the way of a big pothole, then it’s probably tough for cars to predict that, and it could result in a bad situation,” said Tim, an avid cyclist from Portland.
Zarro emphasized that both drivers and cyclists have a role to play in improving safety and reducing preventable tragedies on Maine’s roads.
“Cyclists can do the ABCs of being safe regardless of the time of day: wear bright, light clothing, and use lights on their bikes,” he said. “Drivers can stay alert, avoid distractions, follow the rules of the road, and slow down.”
As the investigation continues, Scarborough Police urge anyone who may have seen the crash or has information about the silver SUV to come forward.
This devastating loss serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for greater awareness and accountability from all road users. Howard Gribbin’s life was cut tragically short, and his community now mourns a loss that should never have happened.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Scarborough Police Department immediately.
