Beloved PR Rep Jacob Priley Fights For Life After Brooklyn Bike Crash

PARK SLOPE, NY — A beloved "local political operative" and public relations specialist was fighting for his life Sunday after he was hit by a car while riding his bike in Park Slope, according to police and loved ones.

Jacob Priley, 30, remained in critical condition Sunday, days after a crash knocked him off his bike on Fifth Avenue near Union Street about 7:30 p.m. Friday, police said.

Priley was biking northbound on Fifth Avenue and, on a green light, made an "abrupt left turn" onto Union Street — colliding with an SUV traveling southbound on Fifth Avenue, according to the NYPD.

Both Priley and the oncoming SUV had green lights, police said.

Priley was launched off his bike and hit his head — causing a traumatic brain injury, loved ones said on a GoFundMe that had raised over $70,000 as of Monday morning.

The 58-year-old driver remained on the scene and no arrests had been made Monday, police said. Police sources told the New York Daily News Priley was not wearing a helmet.

Despite still facing critical health challenges, doctors worked Sunday to reduce pressure in Priley's brain, and his vitals remained stable, Zachary Duffy said on the GoFundMe.

"These are small early signs, and it's important that they be viewed in that context. But they are things we should all hope to continue," Duffy said.

New Yorkers showed up in droves to support Priley, "an extraordinary" person who never fails to show up for his city and friends.

"Anyone who knows Jacob knows what an extraordinary person he is; let's show up for him the way he would show up for us," Duffy said on the GoFundMe.

Priley, an Account Supervisor BerlinRosen, has long worked on the New York City political scene and most recently worked as Chief of Staff for state Senator Brad Hoylman-Sigal.

"He is one of the kindest people I’ve ever been lucky enough to work for," said Aaron Ghitelman, Deputy Director of Communications for the state's Office of Cannabis Management, in a Tweet.

Priley's family was with him in New York City.

“We are grateful and overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for our beloved son and brother, Jacob. Our family is doing everything we can to fight alongside Jacob for his life," Priley's family said in a statement to Patch.

"Please keep our boy in your prayers," said family member Mackensie Priley in a Facebook post.

Priley had worked on street safety legislation, according to street safety advocates Transportation Alternatives.

City Council Member Shahana Hanif noted Park Slope is in need of safer bike infrastructure.

She noted the 2021 death of Park Slope nanny, Arcellie Muschamp, fatally struck while she was crossing the street with a stroller at Fifth Avenue and Union Street.

"How many more crashes until the [DOT] pays attention," Hanif said.