Driver arrested for hitting cyclist while intoxicated

AUSTIN, Texas - A driver was arrested for hitting a cyclist and breaking his femur while he was intoxicated. 38-year-old Travis Ashley was charged with intoxication assault, a third-degree felony. 

The incident happened around 11 p.m. on Sunday, February 16 at the intersection of Sheraton Avenue and South Congress Avenue An officer with the Austin Police Department was dispatched to the scene for reports of a cyclist being hit by a car. When the officer arrived on scene, she made contact with a 29-year-old victim who was still lying in the lane of traffic with a serious injury. 

The victim was taken to a local hospital with a broken femur, which was caused by the collision. 

The police officer spoke with Travis Ashley, who had remained on scene, and formed the opinion that Ashley was intoxicated due to his bloodshot, watery eyes and the moderate odor of alcoholic beverages. The police officer also searched Ashley's vehicle and found a 24 oz Bud Light can in the back seat that was still cold to the touch and half full.  The officer also found another Bud Light can that was closed as well as a 12 oz bottle of Dos Equis in his backpack. 

Ashley initially told the officer that he had not been drinking, but admitted to having a few sips of the beer earlier in the night after the officer inquired about the open container in the vehicle. Ashley also told the officer that he had turned left at the light when he had a green arrow. The police officer watched the traffic lights cycle through twice and noted in the affidavit that there was no green arrow at this intersection. 

Travis Ashley was arrested and taken to the Travis County Jail. His bond has been set at $15,000.