(Photo: Family of Mike Luther)
The family of Mike Luther — the man who was seriously injured while riding his bicycle near NE 122nd and Glisan one week ago — has released a statement on the eve of a grand jury hearing in the case.
According to his family, Luther, who turns 53 today, is still hospitalized and his prognosis is “unclear”. Not much is known about the details of what happened that night. What has been reported thus far is that the man who drove his car into Luther, Wayne Conrad Thompson, backed into him at a high rate of speed. Thompson was detained and charged with first-degree assault.
In their statement, Luther’s family shares that he was an advocate for biking and public transportation and that a donation fund has been set up to help pay for his medical bills.
Here is the statement (emphasis BikePortland):
Mike Luther is a public transportation and safe biking advocate. His chosen method of transportation is his bicycle, and he taught his daughter and nieces and nephews how to navigate and enjoy Portland’s rich public bus and light-rail system. At the apartment complex where he lives, Mike’s the guy the children of the area go to when they need a helmet.
Mike remains hospitalized with substantial injuries. His prognosis is unclear; all we know for certain is there will be a long recovery for Mike that will include a lengthy rehabilitation period. The family thanks the Portland Police Bureau and in particular the homicide detectives for their quick and rapid response and continued support. Witnesses are encouraged to contact the Portland Police detectives at 503-839-0692.
Mike is one of the 649,000 Oregonians not covered by a health insurance plan and according to preliminary legal counsel it is unclear if the driver of the car has insurance to cover Mike’s medical bills. Because of this, a Special Needs contribution account has been opened in Mike’s behalf at US Bank. Donations can be made to the Mike Luther fund at any US Bank branch. The family thanks contributors in advance and those who have already contributed for assisting with medical costs.
Again, the family thanks Mike’s community, his friends and extended family for the support through this difficult time.