Hundreds of cyclists rode in silence Saturday, to honor a beloved teacher killed in a hit-and-run crash in Santa Clarita last month.
Roderick Bennett was riding his bicycle on Placerita Canyon Road, just east of the 14 Freeway, on May 25, when he was struck by a driver who took off, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The 53-year-old was a well-regarded math teacher and band director at Arroyo Seco Junior High School in Valencia.
"He was the kind of teacher that would open his doors at lunchtime," said Mike Kuhlman, the assistant superintendent of the William S. Hart Union High School District. "The kids would come in and have a jam session.. loving to hang out with Mr. Bennett."
Students, family and friends of Bennett met at 9 a.m. and rode from Arroyo Seco Junior High School to Santa Clarita City Hall. Riders reamined silent throughout the ride to honor Bennett and others who have been victims of fatal traffic collisions.
The driver in the crash, Lucas James Guidroz, turned himself in to authorities two days later, after officers found his vehicle in Canyon Country. Guidroz faces felony charges in connection with the fatal collision.
