PALMER, MA (WGGB/WSHM) – A driver is facing charges after allegedly hitting a bicyclist with their vehicle and then leaving the scene.

Palmer Police said emergency crews were called to the area of Wright Street and Beacon Drive around 12:30 p.m. Wednesday for a report of a crash involving a bicyclist and vehicle with injuries.

The cyclist was taken to Baystate Medical Center with serious, non-life-threatening injuries.

Police noted that a nearby witness reportedly saw the vehicle and the driver, which was later located. A preliminary investigation indicates that the vehicle reportedly hit the cyclist, which resulted in the cyclist being thrown onto the windshield and the ground. “The driver stopped, backed up, and left the scene, running over the bicycle,” police added in a social media post.

Investigators determined that the driver, whose name has not been released, was allegedly under the influence of drugs, including stimulants and opioids. A small quantity of crack cocaine was also reportedly recovered from the driver, who has been charged with operating under the influence of drugs, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, leaving the scene of a personal injury crash, and possession of a Class B substance.

Palmer Police added that the driver is “pre-trial probation for similar offenses” and is expected to be arraigned at Palmer District Court on Thursday.

Copyright 2026 Western Mass News (WGGB/WSHM). All rights reserved.