21-005 Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) Investigate A Fatal Vehicle Vs Bicycle Crash In Madeira Beach
M.A.I.T. Investigation
Who:
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office
Patrol Operations Bureau
-Major Accident Investigation Team
Support Services Bureau
-Forensic Science Division
Robert Ragusa (Driver-Uninjured)
DOB: 1/14/1960
Vehicle: 2012 Ford F-150 Pick-up
Kimberly Ann Watson (Bicyclist-Deceased)
DOB: 5/17/1966
Vehicle: Jupiter electric bicycle
What:
Deputies assigned to the Major Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) are investigating a fatal vehicle versus bicycle crash in Madeira Beach.
When:
The crash occurred at about 3:08 p.m. on Thursday, January 14, 2021.
Where:
The crash occurred near the intersection of Gulf Boulevard, just north of 150th Avenue in Madeira Beach.
Why/How:
According to investigators, at approximately 3:08 p.m. on Thursday, January 14, 2021, 54-year-old Kimberly Watson was riding her electric bicycle on the sidewalk, on the eastside of Gulf Boulevard. She was traveling southbound approaching the business entrance/exit of Sinbad’s Big Treasure Chest home goods store.
Investigators say at the same time, 61-year-old Robert Ragusa was driving his 2012 Ford F-150 westbound in the business parking lot and was preparing to exit onto Gulf Boulevard when Watson crossed into his path. The crash resulted in Ragusa’s Ford F-150 striking Watson on her bicycle in the parking lot exit.
Watson was transported to St. Petersburg General Hospital, where she was pronounced deceased at 3:42 p.m. on Thursday, January 14, 2021. Her next of kin has been notified.
Ragusa was not injured and remained at the scene during the investigation.
It does not appear that speed or impairment are factors in the crash.
The investigation continues.
