Location: Topeka

Charges Upgraded in Topeka Cyclist’s Death

The motorist who killed cyclist Michael Anthony Ebron last June in Topeka has been charged with involuntary manslaughter.

According to WIBW in Topeka:

A man involved in a two vehicle accident that left one person dead now faces a more serious charge.

Shawnee Co. District Court records show the complaint against Randy Ledbetter was amended from vehicular homicide to involuntary manslaughter.

The charges stem from a June 2009 wreck. At the time, deputies said Michael Anthony Ebron was riding a bicycle without lights or reflectors on Highway 24 near Goodyear Road. An SUV driven by Ledbetter overtook him from behind and hit him.

Prosecutors say Ledbetter was driving under the influence.

A preliminary hearing is set for March 19th. Read more

The maximum penalty for vehicular homicide is one year in jail and a $2500 fine. The penalty for involuntary manslaughter is 38 to 172 months in prison.

Ebron was struck while riding his bicycle on US-24 highway in Topeka (see original story). A Toyota 4-Runner SUV driven by Ledbetter hit Ebron from behind. Three passengers, an adult female and her two children, were also in the vehicle.

No word on whether Ledbetter will face any additional charges related to driving while intoxicated (such as child endangerment)…

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By Randy Rasa, editor/webmaster at Kansas Cyclist, the web's premier Kansas cycling information site, featuring authoritative guides to Kansas cycling clubs, bike shops, organized bike rides, touring, trails, and much more. [learn more]

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