Centre County Coroner’s Office releases identity of cyclist killed in South Atherton crash
A 70-year-old State College cyclist — a man known for his positivity and friendliness — died Monday after a crash on South Atherton Street, with local officials releasing additional information Thursday.
Douglas Barch died from injuries sustained in the crash, specifically from blunt force trauma to the chest, according to Centre County Coroner Scott Sayers. Police responded to the crash around noon Monday in the 3500 block of South Atherton Street, near T&B Medical. Barch died on the scene after traveling along a bike path before entering the roadway and striking a northbound vehicle, per a news release from police.
Police did not speculate why Barch entered the roadway, although drugs and alcohol are not believed to be a factor. The investigation remains ongoing, according to State College Police Lt. Chad Hamilton, and the name of the uninjured driver has not been released.
Barch was a longtime member of the State College Cycling Club, where he earned a reputation as a “super friendly guy” who was “always very positive,” according to a fellow club member and county official.
“He was one of those people who helps glue the community together,” Centre County Commissioner Mark Higgins added. “He was always very helpful, and he always offered to do extra things in the club and around the community. ... He was wonderful and always spoke highly of everyone.”
State College Mayor Ezra Nanes, who’s heavily involved in the cycling community, said he did not know Barch personally — but acknowledged he felt shaken by his passing.
“His death is a tragedy mourned by all of us and another call to action to continue our work to ensure the safety of cyclists and pedestrians,” Nanes said.
Present at the scene Monday were the Centre County Accident Reconstruction Team, Centre Life Link EMS, Boalsburg Fire Company, Centre County Coroner’s Office and PennDOT. First responders attempted aid at the scene, but could not save Barch.
