Family and friends are mourning the loss of well-known contractor William Robertson, Jr. He worked on the newly opened Negro Southern League Museum in Birmingham.

Robertson was killed this morning in Blount County while cycling with friends. Authorities say a Ford ranger truck hit and killed Robertson and injured two other cyclists. This happened on Highway 75 in the Allgood area

Robertson was killed this morning in Blount County while cycling with friends. Authorities say a Ford ranger truck hit and killed Robertson and injured two other cyclists. This happened on Highway 75 in the Allgood area.

Robertson was pronounced dead on the scene. In addition to the museum, Robertson also worked on the Westin Hotel in the Uptown District.

Demetrius White and Tracey White were the cyclists injured. They were airlifted to UAB Hospital.

Birmingham Mayor William Bell issues this statement Saturday: “We were deeply saddened today on hearing of the tragic and sudden loss of Mr. William Robertson. Mr. Robertson was not only an outstanding African American businessman but also a dear friend. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his wife and his family on their devastating loss. “

State troopers are investigating the crash. 

This is the fourth fatality in the last couple of months in my area.  One of the related deaths was due to a distracted driver.  I’m not sure what the other causes were, but none the less they shouldn’t have happened.

Alabama is the worst state for cyclists.  I’ve been nearly run off the road several times in the last three years.  I purposely ride in subdivisions where traffic is light.  There are two roads where I get on that the traffic is pretty heavy but I’m not on there more than ten to fifteen minutes.  But, unfortunately, that’s plenty of time to get hit.

I had some mechanical difficulties on today’s ride.  I have to take my tire in tomorrow to have another spoke replaced.  Maybe I can get another ride in tomorrow to finish out the month.

“Life Goes On!”