• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
MENUMENU
MENUMENU
  • Home
  • About
    • Contact Us
    • FlaglerLive Board of Directors
    • Comment Policy
    • Mission Statement
    • Our Values
    • Privacy Policy
  • Live Calendar
  • Submit Obituary
  • Submit an Event
  • Support FlaglerLive
  • Advertise on FlaglerLive (386) 503-3808
  • Search Results

FlaglerLive

No Bull, no Fluff, No Smudges

MENUMENU
  • Flagler
    • Flagler County Commission
    • Beverly Beach
    • Economic Development Council
    • Flagler History
    • Mondex/Daytona North
    • The Hammock
    • Tourist Development Council
  • Palm Coast
    • Palm Coast City Council
    • Palm Coast Crime
  • Bunnell
    • Bunnell City Commission
    • Bunnell Crime
  • Flagler Beach
    • Flagler Beach City Commission
    • Flagler Beach Crime
  • Cops/Courts
    • Circuit & County Court
    • Florida Supreme Court
    • Federal Courts
    • Flagler 911
    • Fire House
    • Flagler County Sheriff
    • Flagler Jail Bookings
    • Traffic Accidents
  • Rights & Liberties
    • Fourth Amendment
    • First Amendment
    • Privacy
    • Second Amendment
    • Seventh Amendment
    • Sixth Amendment
    • Sunshine Law
    • Third Amendment
    • Religion & Beliefs
    • Human Rights
    • Immigration
    • Labor Rights
    • 14th Amendment
    • Civil Rights
  • Schools
    • Adult Education
    • Belle Terre Elementary
    • Buddy Taylor Middle
    • Bunnell Elementary
    • Charter Schools
    • Daytona State College
    • Flagler County School Board
    • Flagler Palm Coast High School
    • Higher Education
    • Imagine School
    • Indian Trails Middle
    • Matanzas High School
    • Old Kings Elementary
    • Rymfire Elementary
    • Stetson University
    • Wadsworth Elementary
    • University of Florida/Florida State
  • Economy
    • Jobs & Unemployment
    • Business & Economy
    • Development & Sprawl
    • Leisure & Tourism
    • Local Business
    • Local Media
    • Real Estate & Development
    • Taxes
  • Commentary
    • The Conversation
    • Pierre Tristam
    • Diane Roberts
    • Guest Columns
    • Byblos
    • Editor's Blog
  • Culture
    • African American Cultural Society
    • Arts in Palm Coast & Flagler
    • Books
    • City Repertory Theatre
    • Flagler Auditorium
    • Flagler Playhouse
    • Flagler Youth Orchestra
    • Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra
    • Palm Coast Arts Foundation
    • Special Events
  • Elections 2024
    • Amendments and Referendums
    • Presidential Election
    • Campaign Finance
    • City Elections
    • Congressional
    • Constitutionals
    • Courts
    • Governor
    • Polls
    • Voting Rights
  • Florida
    • Federal Politics
    • Florida History
    • Florida Legislature
    • Florida Legislature
    • Ron DeSantis
  • Health & Society
    • Flagler County Health Department
    • Ask the Doctor Column
    • Health Care
    • Health Care Business
    • Covid-19
    • Children and Families
    • Medicaid and Medicare
    • Mental Health
    • Poverty
    • Violence
  • All Else
    • Daily Briefing
    • Americana
    • Obituaries
    • News Briefs
    • Weather and Climate
    • Wildlife

Flagler Beach Cyclist Frederick J. Martinez Is Killed in Collision With a Work Van on SR100

March 19, 2013 | FlaglerLive | 96 Comments

The cyclist was struck by a work van as the cyclist was in the bike lane on State Road 100, heading east. click on the image for larger view. (c FlaglerLive)
The cyclist was struck by a work van as the cyclist was in the bike lane on State Road 100, heading east. click on the image for larger view. (c FlaglerLive)

Last Updated: 6:49 p.m.

Note: The Poppa Martinez Memorial is scheduled for Friday, April 6, at 6 p.m., at the Flagler Beach Pier. See details here.

Frederick J. Martinez, a 51-year-old Flagler Beach resident, was violently struck and killed by a work van as he rode his bike east on State Road 100 Tuesday afternoon, a little less than a mile from Old Kings Road.

The driver of the van, Palm Coast resident Robert Carlton Little, who’s turning 33 on March 24, said he’d suddenly sneezed and veered into the bike lane, causing the collision, according to a Florida Highway Patrol homicide investigator at the scene.

There is a clearly indicated bike lane along the four-lane roadway.

The wreck took place at 2:36 p.m. Martinez was riding a seven-speed dark gray and gold-striped Avalon. His body, covered in a white tarp, came to rest in the bike lane, barely straddling the white line into the driving lane, more than 50 feet from the bike itself, and almost 60 feet from the point of impact. “Most likely he got dragged from underneath the van,” the investigator said.

Martinez was wearing dark shades, which were on the ground, both lenses outside the frame, at several feet’s distance from each other, and several feet from where the bike, twisted and unrecognizable, had fallen. A dark cap that Martinez had worn, commemorating Hurricane Sandy relief, rested halfway between the bike and the victim.

The medical examiner arrived at the scene at 3:45 p.m., which was to enable authorities to remove the body and clear the scene. The two eastbound lanes of SR100 were reduced to one lane until then. The body was removed at 4:20 p.m.


The van is registered to Kimble Electric of Ormond Beach. Little was not working at the time of the wreck. He was on his way home, the investigator said. A DVD of the “director’s cut” of “Dawn of the Dead” sat on the dashboard, on the passenger side.

The investigator said that Little, who volunteered a blood sample (the highway patrol routinely and legally takes blood samples from drivers involved in road fatalities), said he was not on medication and had not been drinking, claims that will be verified through the sample. The investigator said the driver was potentially looking at a moving violations along the lines of careless driving or failing to remain in one’s lane, but no criminal charges.

“As long as there’s no criminal intent, you’re looking at an infraction,” the investigator said.

By 4:40 p.m., a Palm Coast Fire Department crew was washing down the pavement. A Kimble Electric official was clearing the van of a few effects. The van, as in all homicide investigations, will be impounded for a few days. Investigators were completing their work, and a wrecker was being called in to remove the van–which had visible damage toi its left-front end–and the bicycle.

The victim's bicycle. Click on the image for larger view. (c FlaglerLive)
The victim’s bicycle. Click on the image for larger view. (c FlaglerLive)

 

The body of the victim came to a final rest within a few feet of the bike-lane sign on SR100. Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)
The body of the victim came to a final rest within a few feet of the bike-lane sign on SR100. Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)

 

The biker was wearing a cap commemorating Hurricane Sandy relief. Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)
The biker was wearing a cap commemorating Hurricane Sandy relief. Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)

 

Investigators mark all locations of elements involved in a wreck with orange spray paint. Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)
Investigators mark all locations of elements involved in a wreck with orange spray paint. Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)

 

The victim's shades. Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)
The victim’s shades. Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)

 

Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)
Click on the image for larger view. (© FlaglerLive)
Support FlaglerLive's End of Year Fundraiser
Thank you readers for getting us to--and past--our year-end fund-raising goal yet again. It’s a bracing way to mark our 15th year at FlaglerLive. Our donors are just a fraction of the 25,000 readers who seek us out for the best-reported, most timely, trustworthy, and independent local news site anywhere, without paywall. FlaglerLive is free. Fighting misinformation and keeping democracy in the sunshine 365/7/24 isn’t free. Take a brief moment, become a champion of fearless, enlightening journalism. Any amount helps. We’re a 501(c)(3) non-profit news organization. Donations are tax deductible.  
You may donate openly or anonymously.
We like Zeffy (no fees), but if you prefer to use PayPal, click here.

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. notasenior says

    March 19, 2013 at 4:09 pm

    Why was the van so close to the bicyclist? Florida law requires drivers to stay at least six feet away from bikes. As a bicyclist I am getting tired of reading these stories and the excuses drivers make.

  2. Rosepetal says

    March 19, 2013 at 4:15 pm

    How sad :-(

  3. Tammy says

    March 19, 2013 at 4:27 pm

    Prayers for all involved : (

  4. PJ says

    March 19, 2013 at 4:37 pm

    My prayers for all involved.

  5. jp says

    March 19, 2013 at 5:13 pm

    Fuck the law, I ride my bike against traffic, please bikers, walker, and runners travel against traffic…..Florida drivers are the worst, and flagler county is not bike or runner friendly, people get killed in this county a lot!

  6. RIP says

    March 19, 2013 at 5:46 pm

    So sorry for the victim, accidents happen sooooooooo fast and in a blink, then it happens, the unthinkable..

    The driver is surely very shaken.

    They need to reduce the speed limit from 55 to 45 like on PCPW. Not that speed had anything to do with it, but it may give drivers that slight edge to see bikers..

    Then you can go to the other side and make a law for bikers to have to wear floresent gear and outerware, maybe flashing lights from behind on the bike, anything to help make them more noticable..

    All in all, it truly is very, very sad…

    My sincere condolences to the decease’s family.

  7. brattlike says

    March 19, 2013 at 6:09 pm

    Very sad. I saw the accident scene not long after this accident happened. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the bicycle rider and Mr. Little who has to live with this tragedy for the rest of his life.

  8. Thomas Cook says

    March 19, 2013 at 6:15 pm

    I was driving by when this happened, I started praying for the victim, I am vary sorry to his family, may them be recover soon

  9. Judy says

    March 19, 2013 at 6:42 pm

    I rode past this accident around 3:20. The body was still on the side of the road covered with a white sheet.
    I said a prayer and then called my kids and told them NEVER to ride along the side of ANY road anymore.
    They may not like that but at least I can keep them alive. My sympathy to both families.

  10. Palm Coasting says

    March 19, 2013 at 6:46 pm

    Suddenly sneezed? Wow, that’s original… They should check incoming / out going texts on the drivers phone during the time of the tragedy.

  11. Steve Wood says

    March 19, 2013 at 6:55 pm

    The Law is 3 feet.

  12. Anonymous says

    March 19, 2013 at 7:04 pm

    We have lots of bike paths and they should be utilized. Common sense trumps the law.

  13. Anonymous says

    March 19, 2013 at 7:05 pm

    The law doesn’t protect you but common sense will.

  14. emile says

    March 19, 2013 at 7:36 pm

    I was heading east on this very section of SR 100 at 11:00 AM today, and there was a bicyclist traveling east in the bike lane. I automatically pulled into the left lane to give him plenty of room as I was taught. And I believe most if not all of us would do the same. Why and How could this have happened? I feel so sad for the driver and the victim’s family and friends.

  15. James says

    March 19, 2013 at 7:55 pm

    I love how the first thing everyone thinks we need after an incident like this is more laws.

  16. justthe5ofus says

    March 19, 2013 at 8:14 pm

    We in palm coast have spent millions on sidewalks and bike paths. This is so sad! PLEASE, PLEASE USE THEM!

  17. Rex says

    March 19, 2013 at 8:24 pm

    Florida drivers are HORRIBLE!! It’s sad when the first thought that came to my head was at least the driver stopped.The people here love guns the bible and NASCAR what a joke.

  18. madams says

    March 19, 2013 at 8:39 pm

    I knew Freddy, he would come into my cigar shop in Flagler Beach every week and he would always have a smile on his face. He was a great guy and would ride his bike everywhere whenever he was in town. My prayers go out to his daughter who will be so crushed beyond words.
    I will miss seeing his face he was truely one of a kind.

  19. River and Sail says

    March 19, 2013 at 8:42 pm

    The little strip along side of SR100 with vehicles doing 55 mph is a sad excuse for a bike lane. With all the tax money we give the county a safe bike path should be installed as far from the road surface as possible. A gravel path is cheap and easy to build and would provide a safe place for those who would like to ride a bike instead.

  20. Bob says

    March 19, 2013 at 8:45 pm

    Slow down Florida!!!

  21. Mary says

    March 19, 2013 at 9:20 pm

    Right after going by the accident a lady who just saw what I saw speeds by me going 70mph shaking her head at me for going the speed limit.

  22. confidential says

    March 19, 2013 at 9:50 pm

    Slow down, pay attention and no Bully driving. Always an excuse why an innocent and defenseless cyclist pedestrian or biker are hit and killed in Florida day in and day out. Yeah a sneeze and at which speed..?maybe also texting or just selecting music in the dashboard? Until really harsh penalties will be enacted this so called “murder by infraction” will continuo unpunished.

  23. Carol Fisher says

    March 19, 2013 at 10:03 pm

    Did you read the article. It says the driver sneezed and lost control

  24. Tiffany Martinez says

    March 19, 2013 at 10:04 pm

    He was my father just left Flagler beach yesterday as I got in my car he gave me a hug and told me to drive safe! I can’t believe I lost my father my best friend today! I talk to him at 2pm as he was leaving Wells Fargo to go bag to his beach spot and rest! I’m so devistated I can barely breathe! My dad was my world and loved riding his bike and was aware of his surrounds a sneezing driving doesn’t make sense to me! I’m in the army currently and sounds like he was changing his music on his iPod or texting! My dad told me to always be strong and stand for what’s right! Rip dad I love i

  25. notasenior says

    March 19, 2013 at 10:09 pm

    Do the bike paths lead to Winn Dixie? CVS? Publix?

  26. Tiffany Martinez says

    March 19, 2013 at 10:09 pm

    I’m the daughter of Freddy and I agree with you! I’m at a loss for words! When I sneeze I sneeze on my steering wheel and still have control of my car!

  27. notasenior says

    March 19, 2013 at 10:11 pm

    That really is a sad bike lane and to make matters worse there is usually debris in it. Time to clean up the roads, especially the glass infested bridge!

  28. umm says

    March 19, 2013 at 10:13 pm

    and as a motor vehicle operator, i am getting tired of all of these bicyclists riding on the roads in the driving lane when there is a perfectly good sidewalk!!

  29. Deep South says

    March 19, 2013 at 10:54 pm

    As a avid cyclist I can not count how many times motorist have come within a foot or less of hitting me. The law says THREE FEET ! Or how many times I have been cut off by the famous right turn. Drivers just don’t seem to care or are not paying attention to what they are doing. All I can say is Hey motorist SHARE THE ROAD, IT’S THE LAW !!

  30. Ken says

    March 19, 2013 at 10:56 pm

    I also drove by minutes after this accident and felt sadness not only for Frederick Martinez and his family, but for Robert Little as well. Accurate details will only be known after investigation is complete. Assumptions should be reserved until facts are available. A hard packed dirt path in the grassy area would be ideal for walkers and bicyclists on this 55 mph 4-lane roadway.

  31. Ogreagain says

    March 19, 2013 at 11:38 pm

    Look at where the bike is in the Pix, Tell me where is there 6 feet for the car to move?

    316.083 The driver of a vehicle overtaking a bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle must pass the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle at a safe distance of not less than 3 feet between the vehicle and the bicycle or other nonmotorized vehicle.

    But hey it’s ok to post the wrong info as long as you were first to post right?

    I’m really sick of reading post Were they make up what ever info they want and call it a law

  32. Anonymous says

    March 19, 2013 at 11:52 pm

    Fred is my brother we will be there tmrw thanks for your kind words

  33. River and Sail says

    March 19, 2013 at 11:54 pm

    We must have seen him in our bike rides around town. You rarely stop to get to know other riders but you always wave at the familiar faces.

    What a strange day it has been. His death. A death from causes at the marina down the street from our home, oh the death that didn’t happen. Then the suicide attempt on the ICW bridge as we were pulling out to go to Publix.

  34. margaret says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:32 am

    he was on a bike path,,,stop driving reckless….check the cell phone records

  35. Helen Tilelli says

    March 20, 2013 at 1:03 am

    Very sad. Fred was my neighbor. His business had him traveling a lot, and when he was away, I would collect his mail and hold it till his return. He had told me that he was leaving this week.. I thought he had already left. I was very surprised when I got home and my other neighbors told me what had happen. I’m so sorry Fred that your demise was so horrific. My heart goes out to his daughter and girlfriend Kim. He was a nice man and a good neighbor to have. I just hope he didn’t suffer too much, before he left us. You will be missed Fred. May you rest in peace.

  36. gary hill says

    March 20, 2013 at 2:02 am

    I spent six weeks with Freddy n Hawaii, New Orleans, Florida. I left his Flagler Beach apartment with many momentos of Pro Bowl, Super Bowl,.Mardi Gras, Daytona 500 and our Danica Does The. Pole T-shirts we sold.. I have known his daughter 4 20 years. She returned from Iraq serving our cointry, like Freddy and I did. Florida drivers r as bad as.Arizona. I will call the police. If they refuse, I will call the governor. If florida fails, I. will el recall the governor. I lost my father last year who served n the battle of midway. After receiving4 texts from Freddy today, I lost my best friend.

  37. Tax Payer says

    March 20, 2013 at 2:31 am

    Flaglerlive does a great job reporting the Flagler County news.
    Thank you Flaglerlive

  38. Friel's & Schmidt's says

    March 20, 2013 at 2:59 am

    Rip uncle Freddie

  39. sure thing says

    March 20, 2013 at 3:00 am

    what speed should the van travel in a 55 zone that would save the bike rider? i would imagine 25-35-45 would of still killed the biker..o should we drive 10-15 all over florida?

  40. Profiler says

    March 20, 2013 at 4:38 am

    State Road 100 is owned by the state and regulated by state speed limits.

  41. Anonymous says

    March 20, 2013 at 5:35 am

    OMG! Please tell me it’s not cigar Freddy with daughter, Tiffany!

  42. Samuel Smith says

    March 20, 2013 at 6:18 am

    We should reduce the speed to 15 mph on PCPW, that’s sure to be much safer.

  43. FlaglerLive says

    March 20, 2013 at 8:20 am

    Our understanding is that he did sell cigars, yes, and had a daughter in the Tampa area.

  44. Girl says

    March 20, 2013 at 8:37 am

    JP – I don’t understand, when I was a kid (long time ago) we always travled against traffic, when and why did the so called laws changed?

  45. Blondie says

    March 20, 2013 at 8:38 am

    The Bike rider was on the bike path drivers should pull over in the left lane a bit when passing just like when you are passing a car that is pulled off to the side of road.

  46. Blondie says

    March 20, 2013 at 8:44 am

    Bike path needs to be twice the size it is and people should slow down when passing people walking or on bikes. Now if the the bike rider or someone walking was walking toward the triffic then he may have been able to veer his bike out of the vans way.

  47. Unamed says

    March 20, 2013 at 8:53 am

    This did not happen on Palm Coast Parkway….

  48. Alfred E. Newman says

    March 20, 2013 at 9:05 am

    I’ve sneezed hundreds of times while driving Semi’s and passenger vehicles.
    That sneezing excuse is bullshit.

    The van driver was distracted and not paying the requisite attention to driving.
    Yes it’s an accident, but accidents all have a root cause.
    Rest assured that Mr. Martinez wasn’t the cause!

    My sympathies to Mr. Martinez’ friends and family.
    So sorry for your senseless loss.

  49. jp says

    March 20, 2013 at 9:27 am

    Infraction? You kill someone you shouldnt be allowed to drive for at least ten years…so you learn!

  50. Tragic says

    March 20, 2013 at 9:54 am

    Yes, it was. it is so tragic and sad. please keep him and my niece in your thoughts and prayers

  51. interesting says

    March 20, 2013 at 10:44 am

    He sounds as if he was a great person. Deep sympathy to his family a d friends. Please, ride against traffic. It makes alot more sense. Bright colors reallyhelp as well. Bicyclist ‘s have the right to ride onstage roads and to suggest they just meander bike paths is foolish and demeaning. Many are racers Android many other’s. Big cycling. Is their favorites mode of transport.

  52. Samuel Smith says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:28 pm

    Herp a derp, I break the law by riding against traffic, when I get hit by a car turning right into me I’m positive it’ll be the car’s fault because I ride a bike, herp a derp.

  53. PC Gator says

    March 20, 2013 at 12:39 pm

    My condolences for Fred that is very sad my son drove past the accident and it shook him up. Please don’t blame Florida drivers most people in this county are not from Florida.

  54. madams says

    March 20, 2013 at 1:49 pm

    Tiffany, please let me know if you need ANYTHING at all. I will so miss your Dad. He would always come and hang out when he was in town.

    I am glad I got to meet you and I am glad he was someone I considered a friend. He spoke of you often and how much fun you had on vacation. Your dad will be a missed face in Flager Beach!
    Come see me anytime please

  55. Jennifer Hunt says

    March 20, 2013 at 2:27 pm

    Tiffany,
    I’m Jen, Alexis’s aunt. So sorry for your loss my dear. We will be praying for you

  56. tj friel says

    March 20, 2013 at 2:38 pm

    Fred my thougts and prayers are with tifany and the rest of the family . im sure you took the express lane to heaven i rember all the wonderful times we had when you were were in so cal it seems like yesterday tifany was just a baby and life was just so much fun and you were a big part of our family and part of the reason we relocated to so cal all thos years ago , you proberly led a more full life than a 100 yr old person could . you were one of a kind the world lost a super cool human being rest in peace your cousin in law TJ

  57. Deep South says

    March 20, 2013 at 3:33 pm

    I hope they start building bike lanes, when they expand Old Kings Road, and Pine Lakes Pkwy.
    My condolences to Mr. Martinez’s family.

  58. Alfred E. Newman says

    March 20, 2013 at 5:43 pm

    It doesn’t matter where you’re from. We have a lot of drivers who don’t give two sh**s about other people on the road. These people only care about themselves and refuse to hang up their cell phones or to stop texting when driving.

    No matter what state they hail from, stupidity and irresponsibility is a national problem.
    And too many people on the roads who don’t qualify to drive a multi-ton projectiles.

    It’s only going to get worse. Buckle up. Get a tank.

  59. Good ole girl says

    March 20, 2013 at 5:47 pm

    State road 100 is a state road not a county road !!!! Flagler county alone has put in over 100 miles of sidewalks not including what the city of palm coast has put in and people still do not use them !!!!

  60. Good ole girl says

    March 20, 2013 at 6:10 pm

    Prayers for both families involved !!!! so sad I work on the raod everyday and peoole have no respect for others they dont move over and they dont slow down and same for the bikes they ride the white line and expect you to run other cars off the road to get around them not sayin this was the case in this accident but I see it everyday plenty of sidewalks and plenty of room in the bike path and their still riding in the raod !!!!! Our quiet little county has turned into a madhouse in the last 10-15 years :(

  61. Anonymous says

    March 20, 2013 at 6:20 pm

    So sorry for you loss,I’m Lisa’s mom Sandras friend

  62. Anonymous says

    March 20, 2013 at 6:24 pm

    It is

  63. John says

    March 20, 2013 at 6:41 pm

    A horrible tragedy . Not sure how you can stay 6 feet away from bikes when the bike lane is directly next to the traffic lane.

  64. ahhhchooo says

    March 20, 2013 at 7:34 pm

    When a person sneezes, the eyes shut – it’s a natural response. Next time you feel a sneeze coming on, try and keep your eyes open. It is very possible that the driver did sneeze and for that brief second, his eyes were closed. People should stop assuming that the driver was texting or not paying attention or driving recklessly. Sometimes an accident is just that, an unfortunate accident.

    And not to place blame on anyone whatsoever, but I have seen biker riders/cyclists riding outside of the bike lane and in the road. Especially on A1A. I’ve had to stop completely in the middle of the road because of a cyclist in the driving lane, not in the bike lane and I did not have the space to go around them as cars were coming in the opposite lane.

    Everyone always says watch for bikers and cyclists and drivers should. But on the other hand, bikers and cyclists should watch for cars too. You can’t always blame the driver when accidents like this happen. Again, sometimes an accident is really just a terrible accident.

    Prayers to the family of the deceased as well as the driver of the van who will live with this for the rest of his life.

  65. Jada says

    March 20, 2013 at 7:39 pm

    there was no side walk

  66. Helen Tilelli says

    March 20, 2013 at 8:29 pm

    Today I was able to give what little comfort I could give to Tiffany. I’m glad you guys got to spend some quality time last week. Hold on to those memories. Saying “I’m sorry” just doesn’t seem enough. But I am sorry for the pain you’re feeling in your heart. Easy does it baby girl. Call me if you need anything.

  67. barbara says

    March 20, 2013 at 9:53 pm

    tragic,senseless,unbelievable….my brother fred rip love you

  68. TA says

    March 20, 2013 at 10:07 pm

    Dearest Tiffany, I passed the accident yesterday and the same location again today noticing the memorial along the side of road where your Father was hit. I am so sorry for your loss. I said a prayer yesterday as I passed by and I will keep you and your family in my prayers every time I pass that spot. Not knowing you or your Father my heart is still heavy with sadness. My sincerest sympathy to you…

  69. bs says

    March 20, 2013 at 11:39 pm

    the sneeze is not the problem….it’s not keeping control of your vehicle

  70. finfan1337 says

    March 21, 2013 at 12:14 am

    If you knew the law, you would know bikers are not supposed to ride on the sidewalk. i’m a “motor vehicle operator” as well, but I’m also intelligent enough to know my car can do a lot more damage than a biker. The man died and wasn’t doing anything wrong.

  71. Sue says

    March 21, 2013 at 8:32 am

    This is such a tragedy for ALL involved, but where is there any information that the driver was texting, on the phone, speeding or driving reckless? Why don’t you reserve judgement for when all the evidence is presented? My sincere heartfelt condolences go to Mr. Martinez’s family and God rest his soul, but would you be so quick to condemn Mr. Little if he were someone you knew personally or was a member of YOUR family?

  72. munk says

    March 21, 2013 at 9:54 am

    thought I’d see you in Milwaukee for opening day…..my condolances to Marty ,Mrs C & Tiffany

    Munk

  73. Cliff Olney says

    March 21, 2013 at 12:40 pm

    This is a tragic story and probably was preventable. Sneezed? Lost control? I ride my bike on this route many days a week. Crossing Belle Terre and Rt. 100 at the crosswalks is difficult. I’ve nearly been hit several times by motorists that I notice on their phones instead of paying attention.
    Many people don’t yield to pedestrians or cyclists on the road or at the crosswalks.
    While many are courteous, many don’t seem to care.
    Motorists VS. Pedestrians or cyclists?
    Seems to me, just because you have a big car, you shouldn’t use it against some innocent pedestrian or a guy on a bike.
    Been to a crosswalk lately? Maybe this law was not emphasized in driver’s ed.
    I’ve nearly been run over several times by motorists turning right, who don’t care, flip me off when I point at the crossing light, and are in a big hurry to go nowhere. Give them a ticket, I say.
    Motorists are supposed to Yield to a pedestrian. Yield. Come to a full stop even when you have the green light.
    Yes. It’s the law.
    One person killed by a motorist that’s not paying attention or doesn’t know the law is too many.
    Drivers need to keep focused and to think about how they would feel if they lost a loved one or had to live with taking a life.
    When the light turns green, and a pedestrian is about to enter the crosswalk; he has the right of way, not you.
    There should be a National Law that clearly outlines this.
    In 2009, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that 4,092 pedestrians were killed in crashes with motor vehicles and 59,000 were injured.
    If a pedestrian crosses when they aren’t supposed to or enters into traffic, that’s different.
    Motorists should stop bullying pedestrians and those on bikes.
    Most drivers are conscious of these laws and are courteous to pedestrians. But the few that aren’t, should be ticketed and fined harshly.
    So Little’s going to get a ticket for a moving violation. I’d check his cell phone for incoming and outgoing text messages during this investigation.
    And I do use the sidewalks with my bike as much as that’s possible.
    I often think of riding facing traffic with my bike, especially down here in Florida.
    Maybe that law should be changed.
    A bike rider has no chance to react when someone has to ‘sneeze’ from behind them.
    My thoughts and prayers are with the families.

  74. bs says

    March 21, 2013 at 12:48 pm

    he was on the bike path….it’s the distracted drivers that are the problem

  75. Mark P says

    March 21, 2013 at 7:07 pm

    No matter who was at fault somebody is dead. Whether there was a bike lane or no bike lane I WOULD NEVER RIDE MY BIKE on 100 or any other street like that. With all of the drunks, druggies, old timers, kids, people on cell phones etc. HELL NO!!! Prayters go out to the family though.

  76. Anonymous says

    March 21, 2013 at 9:24 pm

    I drove by just after it happened also. It was a terrable scene. I was glad to know that when the school buses were let out at the same time they were re-routed another way. It would have been horrible for old kings elementary children to see.

  77. debra schmidt says

    March 21, 2013 at 10:44 pm

    that was my cousin..who I laughed with in younger years..,he has a heartbroken mom and dad and family ..all because the driver was watching a movie or whatever else they decide to say ..you know that makes it even worse…But the driver knows for sure and that will be on him and his family ..cause you don’t forget something like this.

  78. Anonymous says

    March 22, 2013 at 10:30 pm

    So sorry to hear about Freddy. I have many memories of him growing up on 241st. My sincere condolences to his entire family.

  79. Tiffany Martinez says

    March 23, 2013 at 3:29 am

    I just want my father back I don’t think these people realize how much he meant to me! He was my best friend and father we did everything together! Now he is gone!

  80. Hope Parisi says

    March 23, 2013 at 2:47 pm

    I am so very sorry To hear Of Freddie Martinez’s passing I grew up with Him IN Bellerose N.Y. On 241st,My thoughts & Prayers go out to his family especially his daughter Tiffany..He was a Good thoughtful Man. One of the last times I saw him He knocked on my door because he had souvenirs that he had got from N H L Allstar game for me He knew I am A Big New York Rangers So he got me Adam Graves autograph on the back of a beautiful cigar box . That the kind of Man he was A very kind person. R.I.P. Freddy You will be missed.The world needs people like you in it.

  81. barbara says

    March 28, 2013 at 7:02 pm

    i’ve heard about the “sneeze”to avoid blame ….come on man up

  82. Amanda says

    March 28, 2013 at 7:20 pm

    What a sad event for ALL involved. I know this driver…Robert is a good family man and friend. The article never mentions how upset Robert is to have destroyed someone’s world! Believe me, this man will NEVER get over this accident!

    I also know the other side of this story…my boyfriend was struck by a car 3 years ago while he was walking on the side of the road. We were all lucky because we did not physically lose him as Mr. Martinez’s family has. It is a horrible feeling to know that your loved one experienced such a tragic event during a moment of innocence. But accidents unfortunately DO happen. As drivers, we have ALL sneezed suddenly and then been thankful the next second that we were still operating our vehicles safely!

    I hope we pray for mercy, forgiveness, and peace for Mr. Martinez and his family, as well as for Robert and his family.

  83. Tiffany Martinez says

    March 29, 2013 at 2:47 am

    Another day has passed dad but I haven’t forgotten you!!! I keep waiting for my phone to ring and hoping your on your way home! I miss u papa so much!!! Your a legend xo love you

  84. mksb says

    March 31, 2013 at 10:31 am

    Im sorry to hear about Freddy. It could have been any one of us riding a bike. Now when I ride I hope someone doesn’t have to sneeze. What Cliff says is so true about cross walks. I have been in the cross walks with the walk light and cars blow there horns and yell at me because they don’t want to wait a second. Just so everyone knows you can’t take rode bikes on sidewalks because the tires are so thin and the walk way are very rough for them. I have a hybrid so I can ride on walkways and roads. I sometimes have to ride on the road and some cars stay far enough away but some don’t like sharing. I notice people are very angry driving and always in a hurry. They never turn there heads to look for a biker or walker when they turn . They figure if no car is there its ok. Please look for bikers or walkers and give them the right away in the walk way. When your driving down the road and you see a biker way ahead give him 3 ft clearance. Maybe if we all biked more we could save gas and get in better shape. In other countries like Netherlands the bikers have the right away not cars.
    This is not the first accident for a biker in this area.
    Bikers need to be responsible also and follow the rules but more so the driver of the car needs to be more careful. Freddy was in the right away in the bike path riding. He was doing what it was suppose to do. I blame the law enforcement around here for not protecting riders more. When they see people come so close to a biker on the road they should receive a ticket and when they try to run you down in the crosswalk also. Please pay attention on the road and if your a few seconds later because you waited for someone to cross does it really matter those few seconds.
    I feel for Freddie daughter.
    If the driver of the van feels that bad maybe he would start something to help us bikers out there to make people more aware of us on the road. He could dedicate his awareness education to Freddie.

  85. bs says

    April 3, 2013 at 2:10 pm

    he killed a bicyclist in the bike lane…is that not reckless enough? who are you? what accountability has little claimed? he took a life, his license should be revoked at the very least.

  86. Tiff Martinez says

    April 3, 2013 at 8:11 pm

    Memorial April 5th first Friday come out

  87. Tiffany Martinez says

    April 3, 2013 at 9:42 pm

    Memorial is this Friday April 5th

  88. tragic says

    April 5, 2013 at 4:32 pm

    you should drive 0 – ziltch – nada if you can’t control the vehicle

  89. Anonymous says

    April 8, 2013 at 2:32 pm

    Im sorry Tiffany that I missed your service for your Dad. Your Dad must had been a wonderful man and very proud of you. If we all could have such great lovely daughters that love us as much.
    There was another accident with a biker on Palm Coast PKWY but that gentlemen lived.
    Your Dad must had loved to ride his bike. I know I also feel good when Im riding I just worry about the cars.
    sorry for your lost

  90. alice says

    April 30, 2013 at 10:56 am

    i have sneezed probably thousands of times while driving–NEVER once have i been afraid of losing control…he was doing something else–i dont belive this for a second

  91. tragic says

    June 18, 2013 at 2:45 pm

    that little guy should be arrested. unintential or accident you still killed someone!

    http://msn.foxsports.com/soccer/story/arrest-made-in-death-of-world-cup-dribbler-seattle-scott-van-hiatt-061713?t1=39002

  92. Anonymous says

    July 26, 2013 at 9:56 pm

    It’s illegal to ride bicycles on sidewalks!

  93. Jim says

    July 26, 2013 at 9:59 pm

    It’s illegal to ride a bicycle on the sidewalk, just like it’s illegal to drive a car on one.

  94. Larry says

    August 7, 2013 at 5:16 pm

    No its not I have been riding my bicycle on the bike path in flagler county all my life never been ticketed or told other wise and have had no run ins with cars cause im on the bike path not in the road where cars are and people who dont watch what they are doing im 33 and still listen to my parents advise stay out of the road unless u want to get run over so to all u bicycleist why dont u take ur own advise u give to your children and stay out of the road and uae the bike path !!!!

  95. Tiffany Martinez says

    August 8, 2013 at 4:00 am

    I just read that article about the soccer player…. So sad rip…. But the guy was arrested and is being held accountable but…the guy that killed my father Robert little only had to pay 666 dollars….so basically in America if your a guy thA just loves your beach town and rides his bike means nothing to Flagler county court system… Pretty sad… I’m disgusted… I will let god take the rest in his hands because I’m just in too much pain….

    I love you dad and ill see you in heaven xoxoxo keep watching over me xoxoxo xoxoxo

  96. Tiffany Martínez says

    May 8, 2024 at 11:54 pm

    I returned to Flagler today again to just be where dad loved because I miss his love so much! Xooxox fixing the bicycle memorial up and I just wanted to be here. They moved the marker bc it can’t be on the state road… ughh pain never goes away. I misss you dad!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

  • Conner Bosch law attorneys lawyers offices palm coast flagler county
  • grand living realty
  • politis matovina attorneys for justice personal injury law auto truck accidents

Primary Sidebar

  • grand living realty
  • politis matovina attorneys for justice personal injury law auto truck accidents

Recent Comments

  • Pierre Tristam on The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Friday, May 16, 2025
  • Linda Cohen on Palm Coast Will Charge Transaction Fees on Electronic Utility and Other Payments 2 Months After Rate Increases Kicked In
  • Richard Fay on Palm Coast Will Charge Transaction Fees on Electronic Utility and Other Payments 2 Months After Rate Increases Kicked In
  • Eileen S Araujo on Palm Coast Will Charge Transaction Fees on Electronic Utility and Other Payments 2 Months After Rate Increases Kicked In
  • Mark on Palm Coast Will Charge Transaction Fees on Electronic Utility and Other Payments 2 Months After Rate Increases Kicked In
  • AngelMom on Majority of Palm Coast Council Willing To Scrap Certain Restrictions on Commercial Vehicles in Residential Driveways
  • Robjr on Palm Coast Will Charge Transaction Fees on Electronic Utility and Other Payments 2 Months After Rate Increases Kicked In
  • Pogo on Don’t Bet on Hydrogen Cars Just Yet
  • BillC on The Daily Cartoon and Live Briefing: Friday, May 16, 2025
  • Billy on Majority of Palm Coast Council Willing To Scrap Certain Restrictions on Commercial Vehicles in Residential Driveways
  • Joe D on Florida Republicans Devour Their Own
  • Ken on Superintendent LaShakia Moore Is Taking on ‘School Choice’ on Her Terms: Stop Competing with Vouchers at a Disadvantage
  • Dennis G Lynch on Palm Coast Will Charge Transaction Fees on Electronic Utility and Other Payments 2 Months After Rate Increases Kicked In
  • Ken on Palm Coast Will Charge Transaction Fees on Electronic Utility and Other Payments 2 Months After Rate Increases Kicked In
  • Skibum on AdventHealth Palm Coast Named one of Top 100 Community Hospitals in the Country
  • Susan on Palm Coast Will Charge Transaction Fees on Electronic Utility and Other Payments 2 Months After Rate Increases Kicked In

Log in