Hit-And-Run Suspect Pleads “Not Guilty”

A man suspected in the death of a Martinez bicyclist in November of 2008 pleaded “not guilty” to charges of hit-and-run and vehicular manslaughter. 50 of the bicyclists relatives and friends were at the brief proceeding.

The victim, Mark Pendleton, was a member of the Contra Costa Cycling Club, and also competed on the Wells Fargo racing team. He was on a routine bicycle ride on the evening of November 24, 2008 when a SUV or truck crossed over the lanes and struck him. The vehicle left behind shards of headlight even though the driver fled the scene.

Denise Pendleton, the 49 year old widow of the victim, said she was “very grateful” for the progress in the case, as it had seemed bleak for quite some time.