BEVERLY — The cyclist killed on Hale Street Sunday afternoon after a collision with a vehicle has been confirmed as longtime Peabody firefighter Dan Pimenta.

"It is with heavy hearts and deepest sadness that we announce the passing of active duty Firefighter Dan Pimenta who was struck while riding his bike in Beverly today," Peabody Firefighters Local 925 posted on its Facebook page Sunday evening. "Dan was an avid rider and champion supporter for the MS society. He rode every chance he got and he fought hard to raise awareness and support for this cause. We ask that you keep his loving wife and two children in your thoughts and prayers during this very difficult time."

+3 Peabody firefighter has spent 25 years on front lines with multiple sclerosis PEABODY — At 28, Dan Pimenta was at a high point in life — he had just got a permanent slot …

Pimenta recently came forward with his story about his own multiple sclerosis diagnosis 25 years ago, at the age of 28. The chronic, often progressive disease affects the body’s central nervous system. With successful treatment, along with dietary changes and exercise, he was able to control the disease's progression.

Few details were available on the crash Sunday evening. The accident was reported to police as a motor vehicle accident involving a bicycle, according to Beverly police Officer Mike Boccuzzi, the department's spokesman.

Boccuzzi said the state police reconstruction team was called to the scene.

A medical helicopter was called to the scene to transport the victim to another medical facility, but that flight was later rerouted to Beverly Hospital.

This story will be updated.