Elderly Cyclist Gerald Kopecky Passes After Tragic Collision with GRTC Bus in Henrico

Henrico, Virginia – The Henrico County Police Division is investigating a tragic traffic incident that claimed the life of 73-year-old Gerald Joseph Kopecky, a well-known resident of Henrico. The crash, involving a bicyclist and a Greater Richmond Transit Company (GRTC) bus, occurred on the morning of Wednesday, October 22, 2025, leaving the local community in shock and mourning.

According to initial reports, the collision took place just after 8:00 a.m. near the intersection of Staples Mill Road and Dickens Road, a busy area frequented by both commuters and cyclists. Emergency responders were dispatched immediately following multiple 911 calls reporting that a cyclist had been struck by a bus traveling southbound.

When officers and paramedics arrived, they found Mr. Kopecky unresponsive at the scene. Despite swift efforts to render aid, he tragically passed from his injuries before he could be transported to a hospital. The driver of the GRTC bus remained on scene and cooperated fully with investigators. No passengers aboard the bus were injured, according to Henrico Police.

Authorities quickly secured the area, closing lanes of traffic for several hours as members of the Crash Team and Traffic Safety Unit conducted a detailed investigation. Preliminary findings suggest that visibility and lane position may have played a role in the tragic event, though officials emphasize that the investigation remains ongoing.

“The safety of all road users—motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike—is a top priority for us,” said Lt. Daniel Holt of the Henrico County Police Division. “We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Kopecky during this heartbreaking time.”

Witnesses told police that Kopecky was an experienced cyclist who frequently rode through the area. Friends describe him as a kind and active man who enjoyed the outdoors and often volunteered in community events related to environmental awareness and senior fitness.

“He was one of those people who made everyone smile,” shared a neighbor. “Always polite, always cheerful. He loved cycling—it was his passion and his way of staying healthy.”

The GRTC also released a statement expressing sympathy for the family, noting that the company is fully cooperating with law enforcement and will conduct its own internal review of the incident. “Our thoughts are with all those affected by this tragedy,” the statement read. “Safety remains our highest concern, and we are committed to working with local authorities to understand exactly what happened.”

As the investigation continues, police have urged anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage to contact the Henrico Police Crash Team at (804) 501-5000.

The loss of Gerald Joseph Kopecky serves as a sobering reminder of the need for heightened awareness and caution on the roads. His passing has touched many who knew him, and his memory will live on in the hearts of friends, neighbors, and family who remember his gentle spirit and love of life.

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