

via google maps

“Dear PoPville,

I wanted to give my fellow bikers a head’s up that we aren’t completely immune to being mugged. I was recently biking around 9:15 pm near 5th and N St NW when I was pushed from behind and hit over the head with a gun (I was actually biking, not sitting at a red light). One of the guys was standing on the edge of the bike lane, looking like he was about to open a car door and was waiting for me to pass. As I went around him (I could only give him so much room as there was a car driving next to me), he pushed and hit me. After falling (and nearly being run over) three men were on me. After three more hits over the head, they took my phone and took off as cars arrived on 5th St. Fortunately I was wearing a helmet so the only injuries I received were from the bike fall. I hopped on my bike and took off. The MPD have been professional and helpful through the entire process.

I don’t think I could have done anything different as I wasn’t drunk, wasn’t wearing a backpack, and didn’t have my headphones on or phone out). As a biker (and a pretty big guy) I tend to feel safer than walkers. I think we are still safer, but not immune. Keep alert.”