Gans hits Rajewski with SUV

Longboat Key Commissioner Terry Gans struck former commission candidate Ray Rajewski with his car as Rajewski was bicycling across Bay Isles Parkway on Thursday, May 16.

Rajewski was crossing Bay Isles Parkway on his bicycle when Gans hit him at 11:44 a.m. Gans was attempting to turn right at the intersection of Bay Isles Parkway and Gulf of Mexico Drive.

Rajewski declined medical treatment, but complained of shoulder, elbow and wrist pain. Rajewski fell on his shoulder and also sustained abrasions.

Gans said he was unsure what color the traffic signal was at the time of the crash, but told the Longboat Observer he’s confident he came to a complete stop before attempting to turn right to head northbound on Gulf of Mexico Drive.

The only witness also told police he saw the crash, but not the color of the traffic light.

While no tickets were issued, the report stated Gans “operated the motor vehicle in a careless or improper manner.”

Gans said he saw Rajewski, “but not soon enough.”

Rajewski could not be reached for comment.

The damage to the bicycle was listed at $100 and damage to Gans’ Lexus sport utility vehicle was listed at $400.

Rajewski is considering running against Gans in March for his at-large commission seat.

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].