Elisabeth Benoit Obituary, Death – Authorities in Concord have released the name of the bicyclist who lost her life following a traffic incident on Friday evening. Police identified the victim as 43-year-old Elisabeth Benoit, a resident of ConcAccording to the Concord Police Department, the incident occurred around 7:10 p.m. on Loudon Road, near the Irving gas station. Officers responded after receiving reports that a bicyclist had been struck by a vehicle. When emergency responders arrived, they found Benoit seriously injured. She was immediately transported to Concord Hospital, where she later passed away from her injuries, officials confirmed.
Investigators stated that the vehicle involved in the collision left the scene before officers arrived and was last seen traveling westbound along Loudon Road. The vehicle’s driver has not yet been identified, and police are working diligently to locate both the driver and the vehicle connected to the incident.
Law enforcement has asked for the community’s help in gathering information that could assist with the ongoing investigation. Officers are particularly interested in hearing from drivers or pedestrians who were near the Irving gas station area between 7:00 p.m. and 7:20 p.m. on Friday. Investigators are also requesting that anyone who may have surveillance or dashcam footage from that timeframe review their recordings and contact the department if they notice anything unusual or relevant.
The Concord Police Department has provided multiple ways for the public to share information. Tipsters can call the main line at 603-226-3100, visit the department’s official online portal, or send a text by typing TIP234, followed by their message, to CRIMES (274637). Anonymous submissions are also accepted.
Police officers, along with crash reconstruction specialists, spent several hours at the scene on Friday night collecting evidence and documenting details. Portions of Loudon Road were temporarily closed to allow investigators to examine tire marks, vehicle debris, and other clues that might help them piece together what occurred.
Residents in the area described the section of Loudon Road as a busy corridor that often sees both vehicle and bicycle traffic, particularly during evening hours. The incident has sparked renewed discussions about road safety and visibility, especially for cyclists who share lanes with larger vehicles.
Concord Police emphasized that the department is committed to identifying the driver and understanding the circumstances that led to the collision. They expressed condolences to Benoit’s family and friends, describing the event as a tragic loss for the community.
City officials are also urging motorists to remain attentive while driving, particularly in areas with mixed traffic. Cyclists are encouraged to use reflective gear, follow traffic signals, and stay as visible as possible during nighttime travel. While the investigation remains open, authorities have not yet released a description of the vehicle or its driver, but they believe someone may have witnessed key details that could lead to new developments in the case.
As of Monday morning, investigators continued reviewing evidence, including potential video footage from nearby businesses and residential security systems. Police say such footage often plays a critical role in identifying vehicles involved in hit-and-run incidents.
In the meantime, community members have begun expressing support for Benoit’s loved ones, with some calling for improved bicycle safety measures along Loudon Road. Efforts to improve street lighting and expand dedicated bike lanes have been suggested as part of a broader conversation about reducing future accidents.
Anyone with additional information that could assist the investigation is strongly encouraged to contact the Concord Police Department. Officials reiterated that even seemingly minor details — such as the color of a vehicle or the sound of tires — could be significant to their case.
The investigation remains active and ongoing, and authorities will provide updates as more information becomes available.
