Update: Driver Won't Face Charges In Wreck That Killed Local Cyclist

WHNT NEWS 19 has learned new information about the wreck that killed Sharon Bayler, a local cyclist. The Tennessee Highway Patrol says the driver who hit Bayler will not face charges.

The wreck happened Saturday in Lincoln County, Tennessee. According to witnesses, a pickup truck came up and struck Bayler, 52, from behind. She was riding with friends, who performed CPR until an ambulance arrived on the scene. Bayler was taken to Lincoln County Regional Hospital in Fayetteville where she later died.


Back in April, Bayler's husband Mike also died while cycling. He suffered a massive heart attack.

Both Sharon and Mike were heavily involved in the Huntsville cycling community. Friends and family are having a hard time coping with their deaths.

"She was a go-getter," said Jackie Stone, one of Sharon's friends and fellow cyclist.

Stone says that according to friends at least 10 cyclists were riding together when the accident occured.

"She [Sharon] was in the back taking up the rear, making sure everybody was accounted for," said Stone.

According to the Tennessee Highway Patrol, the pickup truck and cyclist were heading in the same direction, going south on Tennessee State Highway 274, and as the truck came around a curve, the driver couldn't see Bayler riding because of the combination of a shaded area and the sun.

"They were wearing reflective vests, lights, helmets," said Stone.

Despite the precautions, Sharon Bayler was rear-ended and killed.

Stone says that speeders and careless drivers concern her, but that she won't let fear stop her from her right to ride.

"We shouldn't live in fear and I refuse to," Stone adds.

Stone was back out riding today, honoring her friend Sharon and their passion to ride but she also hopes that motorists are paying more attention on the road.

"We all need to respect one another and share the road," Stone said.