Local artist hurt in hit-and-run; police still investigating

PITTSBURGH — A local artist is on the road to recovery after the driver of a vehicle struck him and fled the scene.

Kevin Mack was riding his bicycle near UPMC Children’s Hospital around 2 p.m. Friday, heading to his job in Sharpsburg. As he traveled east on Penn Avenue, passing the intersection with Friendship Avenue, he was hit from behind by someone driving a dark-colored SUV. Mack went airborne.

“I just heard them screech their brakes," Mack said. “And then I heard them just jet off.”

Witnesses rushed to Mack’s aid and called for help. He spent the night in an area hospital, being treated for a broken tailbone and two fractured vertebrae.

He said it could be months before he’s able to walk without pain or discomfort, but he’s grateful his injuries didn’t render him paralyzed. He is also thankful for the outpouring of support he’s received.

In addition to painting, Mack is also a bartender at Dancing Gnome. The Sharpsburg Brewery features some of his work on the building and other murals can be seen in Troy Hill.

“I was planning on doing another one this next month,” he said. “But I don’t think that’s going to be in the cards 'til springtime.”

Mack urges anyone with information about the crash to contact police. He also urges drivers to please watch for bicyclists.

“It’s not worth speeding,” he said. “It’s not worth someone’s life.”

Monroeville Mall shooting suspect pleads guilty

Cox Media Group