John Muller dies after bicycle accident near Haste Street

Northbound vehicle struck cyclist near student dormitory Friday afternoon

November 15, 2025 | Berkeley, CA

A tragic incident unfolded in Berkeley's Southside neighborhood when a 65-year-old man from Richmond lost his life in a bicycle collision with a vehicle.

Authorities confirmed the details of this heartbreaking event near the University of California campus.

John Edward Muller, 65, of Richmond, died after a vehicle struck his bicycle on Telegraph Avenue near Haste Street in Southside Berkeley.

What Happened in the Crash?

The collision occurred around 3 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15, as John Edward Muller rode his bicycle southbound on Telegraph Avenue near Haste Street. A northbound driver struck him, resulting in severe injuries that proved fatal at a nearby hospital. The crash site was close to Cleary Hall, a student dormitory, highlighting the area's heavy pedestrian and cyclist traffic.

• Victim: John Edward Muller, 65, of Richmond
• Location: Telegraph Avenue and Haste Street, Berkeley, CA
• Time: Approximately 3 p.m.
• Vehicles Involved: Bicycle southbound and passenger vehicle northbound
• Outcome: Fatality, driver remained at the scene and cooperated with police
• Investigation Status: Ongoing by Berkeley authorities

This marks the first fatal cyclist incident in Berkeley for 2025, contributing to the city's total of three traffic-related deaths this year.

Why Do Bicycle Accidents Like This Occur?

Bicycle crashes often stem from a mix of factors, including road conditions, driver inattention, and the inherent vulnerability of cyclists. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), such incidents have seen a notable rise in recent years.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) further underscores that unprotected road users like cyclists face heightened risks in urban settings with mixed traffic.

Legal Insights from Newsline Analysts

Newsline's national legal analysts provide valuable perspectives on handling fatal bicycle accidents, emphasizing the need for thorough investigations and support for affected families.

“Bicyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, and many factors can contribute to serious crashes,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal and an experienced bicycle accident attorney. “It is imperative to come to a determination of the exact cause of these types of accidents. An attorney has the resources to review applicable insurance coverage, hire expert witnesses, run background checks, and locate witnesses.”

Key takeaways:

• Preserve evidence promptly through independent investigations to strengthen potential claims.
• Families may pursue wrongful death compensation for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
• Legal guidance helps navigate complex processes during grief.

“Grieving families of victims are sometimes overwhelmed by the legal processes that are in place to protect their rights,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “An attorney can be a valuable and compassionate resource to help guide a family during this difficult time, and ensure that those left behind receive the restitution they are entitled to.”

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