Noted Route 1 Cyclist Killed in Hit-and-Run in Beltsville

Riverdale Park resident Lisa Martin was killed in a hit-and-run while biking in Beltsville last week.

Martin, an avid cyclist who previously worked as a bicycle courier, joined the competitive racing team Route 1 Velo in 2015 and has earned medals in dozens of races across the greater D.C. area. She served as the group’s president since January 2024.

“She was very welcoming to all and encouraged everyone to join our rides,” current Route 1 Velo Race Director Peter Van Riper told the Hyattsville Wire. “So many have said that Lisa was not only the first to welcome them on their first ride but would always reach out with a helping hand. She was spirited, welcoming, supportive, and generous. We are a much better community because of her and will continue to support all cyclists in honor of her memory.”

On Oct. 8, Martin was struck by a car on her usual weeknight ride near the NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, close to the intersection of Soil Conservation Road and Beaver Dam Road in Beltsville. Other cyclists say that this particular stretch of road has had serious accidents in the past.

The car also struck another cyclist riding with her at the time, Riverdale Park resident Lucy Aguirre, who spent several days in the hospital due to multiple injuries.

Martin, 50, was director of data and engagement strategies at the Laborers International Union of North America. She is survived by her husband, Mario Zometa, a daughter and son and two stepdaughters.

Members with Route 1 Velo held a somber ride over the weekend to the accident site in her honor, wearing all-black racing team cycling shirts.

A funeral will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, October. 18, at the Boston-St. Fort Funeral Home at 5801 Cleveland Ave. in Riverdale Park.

A GoFundMe to help her family has already raised $72,000 after setting a goal of $55,000. You can donate here.