South Tahoe cyclist seriously hurt by alleged drunken driver

Adam Rose, 38, of South Lake Tahoe as of Wednesday afternoon was in the intensive care unit at Renown Medical Center in Reno fighting for his life after being struck by a hit-and-run driver the day before.

The suspect, 54-year-old Christine Whalen of South Lake Tahoe, was later apprehended. She was booked into El Dorado County jail on charges of suspicion of felony driving while under the influence, felony hit and run, misdemeanor hit and run, misdemeanor evading police officers, and misdemeanor obstructing, delaying or resisting arrest.

The incident occurred Aug. 21 at 5pm on Highway 89 near 12th Street. Rose was on his bike headed north and Whalen in her Subaru headed the same way. According to police officers, Whalen swerved to the right and struck Rose.

A witness called 911 and followed Whalen’s vehicle.

Whalen reportedly hit several tree stumps near Tahoe Island Drive and Tahoe Vista Avenue. The vehicle finally stopped when it struck the Bi-State Petroleum building on James Avenue.

The suspect tried to run, but Officer Donna Kingman was able to chase her down.

The investigation is continuing and anyone with information is encouraged to call the South Lake Tahoe Police Department, at (530) 542.6100.

 — Lake Tahoe News staff report