Kettering doctor improves after bike crash

A Kettering Medical Center critical care doctor's condition has improved after he was struck by a car during the annual Vandalia Freedom Tour bike ride.

Dr. Robert Barker, 61, of Kettering, was riding a bicycle when he was hit by a car shortly after 11:30 a.m. near the intersection of Troy Urbana and Cathcart roads in Miami County. Barker, who was wearing a helmet, was one of 1,000 bicyclists participating in the ride. Barker was flown to Miami Valley Hospital and was listed in serious condition. On Saturday, his condition had improved to "fair," according to the hospital.

The car's driver, 65-year-old Connie Humphreys of Conover, told Miami County Sheriff's deputies the victim didn't make a signal when he turned. Witnesses said the car was going around the bicyclist over double-yellow lines at the time of the accident.

Both were traveling in the same direction at the time of the crash, which remains under investigation.

Once the accident report is complete, it will be reviewed by the Miami County Prosecutor's Office to determine any possible charges, according to the sheriff's office.

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