SRPD Investigating Fatal Collision Involving SMART Train and Man on a Bicycle

On January 12, 2026, at approximately 10:27 a.m., the Santa Rosa Police Department (SRPD) was notified of a collision between a SMART train and a man on a bicycle on the south side of the train tracks at Piner Road. Police, fire, and medical personnel were immediately dispatched to the scene. The male bicyclist was pronounced deceased at the scene. 

Members of the SRPD Traffic Team responded and assumed the investigation. Based on their preliminary investigation, it is believed the bicyclist was riding his bicycle westbound Piner Road on the south side of the tracks when he was struck by a SMART train traveling southbound. It appears that all train warning signals were properly functioning at the time of the collision.Officials with SMART responded to the scene and assisted passengers who had been on the train. 

The five passengers and two crew members onboard the train were not injured during the collision. 

Vehicle traffic on Piner Road was not affected by the collision. The train tracks were closed for approximately three hours while the collision was being investigated. 

The bicyclist did not have identification on his person at the time of the collision. Accident Investigators believe he is a Hispanic male in his 30s. They are currently attempting to verify his identity. Once known, the name of the bicyclist will be released pending next of kin notifications. 

The investigation is ongoing, and additional information may be released when the investigation is complete. Anyone who witnessed this collision or believes they have additionalinformation is encouraged to contact Accident Investigator Brenden Sawyer at bsawyer@srcity.org. 

Santa Rosa Police Department case number 26-360. 

Media inquiries can be made to Sgt. Patricia Seffens at 707-543-3634 or pseffens@srcity.org.