Police Find 'Hit-Run' Vehicle in Pro Cyclist Crash

Police say they have found the vehicle used in the that seriously injured pro cyclist Michael Torckler.

"The collision occurred June 29, when Michael Torckler of New Zealand," said Jon Sloat, spokesman for the California Highway Patrol.

"Yu was tracked down and arrested the following day, but the vehicle, a 1996 Honda Accord, was not located."

Sloat said a citizen called Rohnert Park Public Safety On Monday to report that there was an abandoned vehicle that had been left on Hudis and Hillview in Rohnert Park for approximately three weeks.

"Rohnert Park Officers responded, and, after running the plate, found that it was the outstanding felony vehicle," Sloat said. "CHP officers responded, and impounded the Honda to process it for evidence."

Coralie Jenner of Healdsburg, a friend of Torckler's family, said he has been released from Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital and is recovering rapidly.

"He has been released from the hospital but has not been give clearance to fly (back to New Zealand) until the 22nd," she said.  "His father will be returning home so that he can return to work and his mother will stay here with him."

Jenner added "Michael's spirit is amazing," she said.  "Thoughout this, he does not complain.

"He is focused on the future and recovering.  He minimizes the pain and only expresses frustration at not being able to get up and move about on his own."

She said Torckler and his family are that has been started to help him with medical bills.

"I think his will and the prayers and love from everyone have accelerated his healing to mind-boggling speed," Jenner said. "His memory is returning very well and they do not anticipate any permanent damage there."
 
She noted that Paulo, a cyclist who is from The Riviera Ristorante in Santa Rosa, has been taking special care of the family while they have been at the hospital. 

in Healdsburg continues to accept donations on the families behalf, Jenner said.