This is a terrible loss to the cycling community in Wisconsin. The driver hit the cyclists from behind. He claims that the sun was in his eyes and that he could only see about 10 feet in front of his car--- so he slowed down to 40 mph.

Jeff, We hardly knew ye...

Bike Shop Owner Dies After Crash

Story Updated: Oct 5, 2010

MILWAUKEE - Jeff Littmann, the president of the Wisconsin Cycling Association who was struck by a car on a training ride last week, died Tuesday, Froedert Hospital confirmed.

Driver Who Hit Bicyclists Blames Sun

WAUKESHA - A driver who ran into two bicyclist Friday morning in Nashotah told Waukesha County Sheriff's Deputies he was blinded by the sun and didn't' see the victims until after he hit them.

Jeff Littmann, 56, ~~remains in critical condition~~. He's very involved in bicycle racing in Wisconsin, coaches and is owner of Attitude Sports in Pewaukee.

Lauren Jensen is a well known triathlete. She was released from the hospital shortly after the crash.

According to the accident report, the Littmann and Jensen were going eastbound on Wisconsin Avenue.

Kyle Dieringer, 25, of Nashotah, was behind them. He told investigators that morning he cleared the dew from his car so he could go to work. He said he was wearing his sunglasses, the visor was down and he turned the wipers off when the dew cleared.

In his statement, Dieringer wrote, "I was going under the speed limit, about 40 mph because it was very hard to see. I made sure to be in my lane because I couldn't see oncoming traffic or anything much more but about (estimated) 10ft in front of me. I didn't see anyone then all a sudden boom I hit two bicyclists."

Dieringer said he stopped as fast as he could, called 9-1-1 after getting out to see what happened. He said he screamed the whole time because he was scared for the cyclist's life.

The report says Jensen told investigators she looked and ran to Littmann. He was unconscious but breathing. She said his helmet had come off when he was hit.

The report says the driver came toward them and apologized and said "I never saw you guys" several times. She thought he was talking on the phone or to himself. She told him to stop screaming and call 9-1-1.

Jensen said she kneeled next to Jeff repeating his name. He remains in critical condition. So far, no citations have been issued and the investigation continues.

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