Healy was riding with a group that rides the back roads of Fresno County every Tuesday and Thursday.
The Highway Patrol says at 5:36 on Tuesday morning, the group was near Auberry Road north of Copper Avenue when a Jeep Wrangler, which was also headed north, attempted to pass.
The incident report states that Healy directed his bicycle into the path of the jeep, as if making a U-turn. The two collided, and Healy died at Community Regional Medical Center.
Nathan Magsig was with Healy, and witnessed the accident along with the rest of the group. He says Healy often spoke of his students. "Jim loved teaching and would want all of them to do their best in their classes and he was very proud of them."
55 year old teacher's life outside of the classroom centered around his family and his cycling community. Magsig said, "He loved his kids, and he would talk and brag about his kids, and talk about his wife and the relationship he had with Jesus Christ."
Magsig says Healy once competed in time trials and road races, always physically trying to push himself. He also says the cycling community is devastated at the loss of the family man who always had encouraging and positive things to say. "Jim would want those who are passionate about riding their bike to continue riding their bike he would not want what took place today to slow anybody down."
Susan Bedi, Public Information Officer at Fresno Unified School District, issued the following statement: "We learned today of the tragic accident that took the life of Sunnyside High teacher Jim Healy. Mr. Healy was the technology teacher and the "go to" person for any technology needs at the school. He will be missed by not only the Sunnyside community but the entire district. Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time."
