Bicyclist injured; hit by car

A homeless woman was riding a bicycle in the dark, westbound on Raymond Road just north of Road 28 1/4, when she was struck from behind by a car. She was critically injured after being thrown to the pavement of the eastbound lane, according to The California Highway Patrol.

The woman was riding in the traffic lane about 8 p.m. on Thursday, when she was struck by a 2007 Prius, driven by a 21-year-old woman from Madera.

The cyclist was not wearing a helmet and reportedly had no light or reflectors on the bike. Toxicology reports are pending.

Area residents have long asked authorities for assistance in disbursing the many homeless encampments in the general area, just north of the city limits along the east side of Road 28 1/2.

The woman initially survived her injuries, but as of Monday she had reportedly been placed on life support at Community Regional Medical Center. Her name is not being released pending the location and notification of her next of kin.

No charges have been filed against the motorist, who stopped and called 911.