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Cyclist Passes Away After Hit & Run Accident, NCSHP Releases Photos of Suspect & Vehicle

Last Updated on October 19, 2019 2:19 pm

UPDATE Wednesday October 16


A cyclist involved in a hit and run accident on 221 near Grandather Mountain has passed away from his injuries.

Ignacio Giraldo, 61, of Sunrise, Florida passed away on Saturday (October 12), according to Master Trooper Jeffery Swagger with the North Carolina Highway Patrol. The NC State Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate and follow-up on leads from the accident that occurred on Thursday, October 10.

Giraldo was traveling north on US 221 when a southbound minivan crossed the double yellow line in a curve, collided head-on and continued without stopping.

NCSHP has also released photos of the suspect vehicle and possible suspect. The images were obtained after receiving a tip that the suspect vehicle was spotted at a gas station in Boone.

The charcoal gray 2005-2010 Toyota Sienna minivan will be missing a large piece of the right front bumper, has a significantly damaged windshield on the passenger side, and damage to the passenger side mirror, according to Trooper Swagger.

The rear of the minivan contains numerous stickers to include Batman, YETI, and UNC Tarheel stickers. The possible suspect is a white male, 50-60 years of age, with a white or gray beard, and may be wearing glasses.

Anyone with information is asked to immediately contact the SHP Troop F Communications Center at 828-466-5500 or dial 911.

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