Young bicyclist recovering after car hits him

A Carson City boy was recovering Friday after being struck by a car as he rode his bike on Fourth Street, an official said.

Brice Bass, 10, was taken by helicopter to Renown Regional Medical Center with injury to his head following the 7:15 p.m. accident Thursday. He was in good condition and is expected to make a full recovery.

Deputy Bob Guimont said Brice was peddling eastbound on Fourth Street when he ran through the stop sign at Division Street and was struck by a southbound vehicle driven by Ashley Cusimano, 19.

Guimont said Cusimano's speed was estimated at 28 mph.

Onlookers rushed to help Brice, whose body was carried about 35 feet.

"Citizens in the area did an outstanding job helping this little guy. Some made it clear that they are mothers too, and they wanted to make sure that Brice was OK," Guimont said. "His mother told me today that she is grateful that folks came out to the help her son."

He said the incident is a reminder that bicyclists should wear helmets.

"The paramedics were adamant that had he been wearing a helmet, it may have lessened the chances of him actually being transported to the trauma unit," he said. "Bike helmets aren't mandatory, but it's highly recommended. You can recover from a broken leg, a broken arm or a damaged knee, but you (likely) cannot recover from a damaged brain."

• Contact reporter F.T. Norton at ftnorton@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1213.