Driver Arrested After Allegedly Trying to Mow Down Bicyclist in Brookline Park

A Boston man was arrested Saturday after police reportedly caught him speeding through Olmsted Park and trying to trying strike a bicyclist with his Lexus.

Police say Robert Nicosia, 66, sped through the park from the Jamaicaway to Pond Avenue, driving over grass and flower beds and weaving through trees at a time when the park was filled with people enjoying the warm Saturday afternoon.

The first officer on the scene reportedly tried to stop Nicosia as he sped along a paved walking path, but Nicosia reportedly pulled onto the grass and wove through several trees before going over the curb and driving down the wrong side of Pond Avenue. The officer reported that Nicosia appeared to be trying to strike a bicyclist that was fleeing him, but the cyclist was apparently able to stop short of the vehicle and turn around.

Nicosia had alleged put the car in reverse and was attempting to pursue the bicyclist when the officer pulled up behind him and ordered him out of the car.

When stopped, Nicosia allegedly screamed at the officer that the bicyclist had smashed his side-view mirror with a bike lock after they had gotten in an argument about the right of way. Police were unable to locate the bicyclist.

Several witness reported Nicosia driving through the park, with one witness estimating his speed at 30 to 40 miles per hour. He was charged with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, operating to endanger, disorderly conduct, trespassing, restricted way violation and marked lane violation.