SAN DIEGO - Dozens of bicyclists gathered Wednesday afternoon for a rally in honor of a young cyclist who was recently struck and killed in Kearny Mesa.
The group met in Balboa Park then rode to the City Administration Building where they spoke out about inadequate road conditions.
Pacific Beach resident David Ortiz was riding his bike during the morning commute on March 23, when a sports utility vehicle allegedly knocked him off his bike then he was run over by two cars, according to police.
"He was a big part of our lives and that's cut short," said Michael Ortiz, the victim's brother.
The riders wanted to raise awareness and encourage drivers to use more caution.
"Drivers need to respect laws and bikers need to follow the law, too," said cyclist Frank Paiano.
The group rested on the ground outside the administration building for only a brief time. Many of the cyclists say they ride to work every day to save money and for good health.
"We feel we're not being listened to by politicians," said Phillip Young.
A group called "Bike San Diego" said about 1,000 bicyclists are struck every year in San Diego.
"Our streets are killing us," chanted one cyclist.
The investigation into the Ortiz fatal accident is still under investigation. Police are calling it a "tragic accident," and say so far no charges have been filed.
