Driver in Biddeford Bike Accident Feels ‘Awful’

BIDDEFORD, Maine (AP) — The driver of a pickup truck that struck three bicyclists including a 15-month-old boy in Biddeford last week says he feels ‘‘awful’’ about what happened but says he had a coughing fit and fainted just before the accident.

David Labonte of Kennebunkport told The Portland Press Herald he’s asthmatic and was feeling light-headed just minutes before he struck Jamerico Elliot of Saco, his wife, Melodie Brennan, and their toddler son, who was in a bike seat, on Friday evening.

The 56-year-old Labonte says he’s a painting contractor who doesn’t have health insurance and isn’t being treated for his asthma.

Elliot and the boy were taken to the hospital in critical condition.

Deputy Police Chief JoAnne Fisk says the accident remains under investigation and no charges have been filed.