A newly ordained female Episcopal bishop in the US has killed a bicyclist, before reportedly fleeing the scene in the state of Maryland.
Police on Saturday said a 58-year-old female motorist drove away as the fatally injured 41-year-old father and custom bike maker Tom Palermo was taking his final breath.
A letter from the Episcopal Diocese of Maryland revealed on Sunday that it was, Bishop Heather Cook, Maryland’s first female Episcopal bishop, who disappeared from the fatal crash before finally returning to take responsibility.
Bishop of Maryland, Right Revd Eugene Taylor Sutton said :”I am distressed to announce that Bishop Heather E. Cook was involved in a traffic accident Saturday afternoon, Dec. 27, that resulted in the death of a bicyclist, Thomas Palermo, 41. Bishop Cook did not sustain any injuries.
“Together with the Diocese of Maryland, I express my deep sorrow over the death of the cyclist and offer my condolences to the victim’s family. Please pray for Mr. Palermo, his family and Bishop Cook during this most difficult time.
There is an ongoing police investigation into the accident. Several news organizations have reported this as a ‘hit and run.’
“Bishop Cook did leave the scene initially, but returned after about 20 minutes to take responsibility for her actions.
“Because the nature of the accident could result in criminal charges, I have placed Bishop Cook on administrative leave, effective immediately. I will meet shortly with the Standing Committee to discuss ways we can move forward. Also, I have decided to delay the beginning of my sabbatical to Jan. 24 to be pastorally present in this difficult time.”
According to Mail Online, the local cycling advocacy group Bikemore released a statement on their friend Palermo’s death, which read in part:”Tom was a passionate bicycle builder, a father, and a friend to many people who ride bicycles in Baltimore.
“While details of the crash are still emerging, we know the driver of the car involved initially fled the scene, leaving Tom to die on the street.”
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