Hit-and-run involving cyclists in Rigaud: Ontario man charged

A 54-year-old man from Ontario turned himself into police on Tuesday – in connection to a hit-and-run Saturday in Rigaud – west of Montreal.

A husband and wife – taking part in a charity cycling race – were seriously injured.

Brian Poirier was charged on Wednesday at the Salaberry-de-Valleyfield courthouse with four counts – including failing to stop after an accident when bodily harm is involved, and dangerous operation of a vehicle causing bodily harm.

Around 5 p.m. on May 24, the SQ say Poirier struck the cyclists while they were riding on Chemin du Haut-de-la-Chute in Rigaud – and fled the scene.

The victims were taken to hospital.

“It was a whirlwind of emotions,” said Robert Gagnon-Da Rocha, the couples son. “My initial thoughts were that my parents were dead.”

“But we’re glad they are not,” he added. “And are focused on the present and the future.”

The woman in her 50s, Julie Gagnon, has been released from hospital, while the man in his 60s, Mario Rocha, is still fighting for his life.

“My mom is doing well,” said Gagnon-Da Rocha. “She has a couple of broken ribs amongst other upper and lower body injuries.”

“My dad is slowly getting better,” he added. “I’m very happy to say that my dad is now out of his coma.”

“He has a very long road ahead of him in terms of recovery and rehab.”

“I was completely devastated when I heard what happened,” a friend of the couple told CityNews. “The entire cycling community in Montreal was in shock.”

“A very experienced rider who loves and lives for the sport,” is how the friend described Rocha. “Known as a gentleman through the cycling community.”

On Tuesday, Poirier presented himself to the Vaudreuil-Soulanges Est MRC police station. He was arrested by the Sûreté du Québec.

On Wednesday morning, the 54-year-old man was being held in custody pending his court appearance, scheduled to take place via videoconference at the Salaberry-de-Valleyfield courthouse.

“I just got the news 30 minutes ago,” the friend explained. “Goosebumps through my body and tears in my eyes.”

The vehicle used by the suspect in the collision was located in Vankleek Hill, Ontario. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) participated in the investigation, which led to its location.

The vehicle was seized and will be examined by Forensic Identification Services technicians.

“We want to thank all of the doctors and nurses of the ICU where my dad is being treated,” said Gagnon-Da Rocha.” They have been and continue to be so excellent in supporting our family and a huge help for us.”

“Additionally, we’d like to thank anyone who shared my parents’ story,” he added. ” All the support has been amazing to see.”

—With files from The Canadian Press, first published in French and translated by CityNews