MENDON, Mass. (AP) - A bicyclist participating in the annual Boston-to-New York AIDS ride died Friday when he suffered a heart attack and swerved into the path of a motorcycle about 30 miles after the start, authorities said.
The man, whose name was not immediately released, was taken to Milford-Whitinsville Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
"According to eyewitnesses, he was riding along safely when he suddenly veered out into traffic," ride spokeswoman Lisa Tabor said.
The motorcycle was driven by an event safety marshal. The driver was unhurt.
More than 2,100 riders started the three-day event in a steady downpour at Northeastern University at 5:30 a.m. Friday. Money raised by the 275-mile ride will benefit Fenway Community Health in Boston, Callen Lorde Community Health, and Lesbian and Gay Community Services Center in New York.
This year, more than 10,000 bicyclists participating in AIDS rides across the country will raise an expected $28.5 million for direct-care services for people living with HIV and AIDS.