Investigation Of Fatal Napa Bicycle Crash Completed

NAPA, CA — The Napa Police Department has completed an investigation into a fatal bicycle crash that happened earlier this year on Wine Country Avenue.

Napa resident Ignacio Alfaro, 45, was found by a passerby suffering critical injuries to his head shortly before 8:45 p.m. March 26 on Wine Country Avenue near Dumas Street.

Alfaro was transported to Queen of the Valley Medical Center, where he died from the injuries.

Police did not find any other involved parties at the crash scene.

The Napa Police Department’s Reconstruction Team and American Canyon Police Department Major Accident Investigation Team responded and took control of the investigation.

The teams comprise officers and professional staff with multidisciplinary expertise and the tools to thoroughly investigate major crashes like this one, Napa police Sgt. Aaron Medina said.

Police also made a plea to the public, asking anyone with information to come forward.

A lengthy investigation determined Alfaro was riding his bicycle westbound on Wine Country Ave., along the south side of the street and west of state Highway 29, when he struck the curb and was ejected from the bicycle.

"Alfaro’s head struck a utility box, resulting in his critical injuries," Medina said. "Alfaro was not wearing a helmet and was found to be under the influence of alcoholic beverages."

Police said the area was canvassed extensively for witnesses and video, and all evidence supported Alfaro's being alone when he crashed; no other vehicles were involved.

The primary factor of the collision, Medina said, was determined to be a violation of California Vehicle Code 21200.5, Riding a Bicycle Under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs.

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