Memorial bike ride held for Alva hit-and-run victim

Reporter: Zach Oliveri Writer: Jackie Winchester
Published: Updated:
Debra Purcaro

A beloved bicyclist was remembered by honoring her love of the sport.

Debra Purcaro was hit and killed by a driver in Alva a week ago as she was riding her bicycle on North River Road.

The Caloosa Riders Bicycle Club gathered Sunday morning for a memorial bike ride in her honor. Among those in attendance was her daughter.

Purcaro was riding with other members of the group when she was hit and killed March 14. On Sunday, the group rode their bikes from Caloosahatchee Regional Park to the spot where Purcaro was killed and another cyclist suffered severe injuries.

Last week’s tragedy was the first time the group experienced the loss of a member, and they want to make sure it doesn’t happen again.

“It’s kind of lit a fire under us to help for community outreach and remind drivers that they have to share the road. Driving is actually a privilege, it’s not a right, and other people are on the road with you,” said Isobel Hitchcock, president of the Caloosa Riders.

She said Purcaro always had a smile on her face and was willing to help new riders.

The club also placed a ghost bike at the site of the crash.

They’re matching the $3,000 reward offered by Southwest Florida Crime Stoppers for information leading to an arrest in the case.

If you have any information on the driver who hit and killed Purcaro and injured her friend, call Crime Stoppers at 800-780-TIPS.

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