The Star Herald
KOSCIUSKO —
The investigation into the incident that claimed the life of Kosciusko physician Dr. Gary Holdiness remains open.
Dr. Gary D. Holdiness, 54, was bicycling south on the NTP when he was struck by a Toyota FJ Cruiser, driven by a 17-year old Attala County male May 6 at milepost 156.
An accident report from the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service was released recently. Holdiness was pronounced dead at the scene.
The report gives a descriptive narrative of the scene of the accident and the damage sustained to the Toyota FJ Cruiser. It also describes Holdiness’ bike as being “scattered over the southbound lane” and along the wood line.
The driver’s statement says when he went to pass Holdiness, he moved his vehicle into the northbound lane and when he was halfway over the yellow line, the cyclist stumbled causing him to strike Holdiness.
The driver hit the brakes and called 911. He was driving 60 miles per hour in a 50 zone.
The report describes Holdiness and his bike as being equipped with safety gear.
He was wearing clip in bike shoes that clip into the bike pedals.
He was found to have one shoe off following the collision. His helmet was missing and later found still buckled.
Findings indicate that the chin strap was not tightly secured on Holdiness’ head.
Since the investigation remains open, portions of the report are blacked out.
