CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — The community is coming together to remember 80-year-old Stanley D. Sweeney — a cyclist who died after being hit by a car over the weekend.
Chesterfield Police said Sweeney was riding his bike on Lucks Lane near State Route 288 during the evening on Sunday, Nov. 5, when a car, traveling in the same direction, hit him.
The driver, Mahmoud Khattab, remained at the scene. He was issued a summons for reckless driving.
Sweeney was taken to a nearby hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries at the time, according to police. However, on Monday, Nov. 6, Sweeney died as a result of his injuries from the crash.
Kirk Sweeney — Stanley’s son — shared the following about his father:
“Our father was beloved by all that knew him. He lived with a unique vibrance and enthusiasm for life, people and adventure. He truly lived life to its fullest, and was first and foremost, devoted to his wife of 56+ years, his two sons, and his four grandchildren, who he adored, and they adored him even more.”
“He taught us so much about unconditional love, and exuberance for life. He was full of passion, and his interests were far and wide. Particular passions included art, especially painting, kayaking, music, food, mountains and water, and sports such as running and biking. His greatest passion was his family, who he led with grace, kindness and love.”
8News also spoke to Jessica Swym and Glenn Pfluger, who worked with Sweeney and considered him a friend.
“He was a Renaissance man,” Pfluger said. “He was a pilot, an artist, triathlete, a bike racer. The fine painting was something he sold all over the world.”
Swym added that, “Stan was a neighbor. He’s been a work partner of ours [at Rituals Salon and Spa] for 18 years. We’re very sorry for his family and friends closest to him and we want to support him in anyway that we can.”
8News also learned that the 80-year-old was a member of the Richmond Concert Band where he played percussion.
“He loved to share his gift with others,” Swym said. “Just being excited about his work and his music. You can tell he loved it.”
The Chesterfield County Police Department is continuing to investigate the crash.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Chesterfield Police at 804-748-1251.
