Crime & Safety
At Napa Courthouse, Cyclists Show Support for Injured Rider
Kenneth Prosser, 76, was seriously hurt when a 23-year-old driver hit him in a bike lane on Soscol Avenue April 16 in what authorities said was her second DUI in less than a week. She's due back in court July 10.
The 23-year-old Napa woman charged with driving under the influence and seriously injuring a Napa bicyclist April 16 is due back in court next month.
Jenna Rubio is scheduled for arraignment July 10 at 8:30 a.m. at the Napa County Criminal Courthouse, where her preliminary hearing Wednesday morning was held in a crowded courtroom.
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Cycling advocates and supporters of the injured cyclist, 76-year-old Kenneth Prosser, had been asked by his son Ken to come out for the preliminary hearing.
His father was hospitalized for two months following the collision, and still suffers from a fractured shoulder and wrist, Ken Prosser said.
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Because of his injuries, Kenneth Prosser will not be able to ride his bike again, his son said.
Before the collision, "he rode every single day" for 10 to 20 miles, Ken Prosser said.
Among the Napa cylists who came down to the courthouse before Rubio's hearing Wednesday morning were Genji Schmeder and 15 members of the Eagle Cycling Club, who drew up in front of the entrance before embarking on their regular Wednesday ride.
Other cycling advocates attended Rubio's preliminary hearing, which was so crowded some people were turned away at the door, according to Napa Patch reader Yvonneteresa von Grieken.
After the hearing, Ken Prosser posted on the Napa Patch Facebook page: "Everyone who showed up, we are truly thankful...the support is amazing and the battle has just begun."
Napa police say Rubio struck Kenneth Prosser with her Lexus in the Soscol Avenue bike lane while driving south at about 8 a.m. April 16.
Investigators believe Rubio was under the influence of marijuana and prescription medications, police said.
Rubio was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI.
California Highway Patrol Officer Jake Ramos said Rubio had previously been arrested for misdemeanor DUI involving drugs while driving on the Silverado Trail south of Oak Knoll Road in unincorporated Napa County around 10 p.m. April 11.
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