BRISTOL, Tenn. — Authorities are investigating a fatal traffic crash that claimed the life of a Bristol man Thursday afternoon at a busy city intersection. The Bristol Tennessee Police Department confirmed that the incident occurred shortly after 4:30 p.m. on February 5 at the intersection of Island Road and Walnut Hill Road, involving a van and a motorized bicycle.
According to police, officers with the Bristol Tennessee Police Department and emergency crews from the Bristol Fire Department were dispatched to the scene after receiving reports of a serious collision. When first responders arrived, they found a man riding a motorized bicycle who had sustained significant injuries as a result of the crash.
The victim was transported by emergency medical personnel to Bristol Regional Medical Center for treatment. Despite life-saving efforts by hospital staff, the man later succumbed to his injuries. Authorities have identified the victim as Daniel Larkin, a 43-year-old resident of Bristol, Tennessee.
Police have not released details about how the collision occurred or which vehicle may have had the right of way at the time. Investigators have also not indicated whether speed, impairment, or road conditions played a role in the crash. The driver of the van involved remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities, police said.
The crash remains under active investigation and is still considered to be in its preliminary stages, according to BTPD. Officers are examining physical evidence from the scene, reviewing any available surveillance footage, and working to reconstruct the moments leading up to the collision. No charges have been announced at this time.
Police are asking for the public’s help as they continue their investigation. Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that may assist investigators is urged to contact BTPD Officer James Owens at 423-989-5600 or by email at jowens@bristoltn.gov. Authorities say even small details could be important in determining exactly what happened.
The death of Daniel Larkin marks another tragic reminder of the risks faced by vulnerable roadway users, including those on bicycles and motorized bikes. As the investigation continues, police encourage all drivers and riders to remain alert, follow traffic laws, and use caution at intersections to help prevent future tragedies.
