Friends create fundraiser CD for injured cyclist

TUCSON, AZ (KOLD) - Friends of a Tucson bicyclist seriously injured in a hit-and-run accident have created a compilation CD to raise funds for his recovery.

Loved ones say Sam Abate, 23, has long been an avid music fan and supporter of various Tucson-area bands. Now, the local musician community is giving back to Abate by offering their songs to this fundraising effort.

The CD costs $12, and is available at www.helpingsam.net.

Abate was hit by a car last week while riding his bike near Swan and Ft. Lowell Roads. He sustained very serious injuries from the accident.

Police arrested Abigail Allin, 21, who was driving on a suspended license. She is charged with:

• Leaving the scene of a serious injury collision (at fault driver)
• Causing serious injury with a vehicle while under a suspended license
• Tampering with physical evidence

Allin had her windshield replaced after the collision, according to Damon Ashcraft, a technician with AAG Auto Glass and Tint. He called 911 after the installation because he noticed blood and hair on the broken windshield.

Allin told Ashcraft that a brick had gone through the glass on her black Nissan Altima. When he pressed her on the blood and hair, Ashcraft said she thought it could have been a bird.

Police later picked up the broken windshield from the shop.

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