Ismael J. Ramsey

U.S. Attorney

Northern District of California

March 4, 2024

Dear Mr. Ramsey,

The killing of cyclists on our San Francisco streets affects us all. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California must hold drivers who kill cyclists accountable. Age is not an excuse. Drunk driving is not an excuse. Killers of cyclists – especially drunk drivers – must serve substantial time in jail for taking a life.

Ethan Boyes was a treasured member of the cycling community here in San Francisco. His family has suffered, his close friends have suffered and the cycling community has a hole in it because of his death. His killer, Arnold Kinman Low, should be charged with felonies, not a misdemeanor. Drunk driving is a serious crime. Driving off the road, crossing into a bike lane such that you drive up on the dirt embankment, and killing a cyclist in the process is gross negligence. If done while driving drunk that is a felony. Charging Mr. Low with a misdemeanor would not hold him properly accountable for his actions. A misdemeanor charge also makes clear that this U.S. Attorney’s office does not take cyclists' safety seriously. 

Cyclists matter. Cyclists are among our most vulnerable road users. We are part of a virtuous cycle on our streets: When cyclists feel safe, streets change in character and appeal. Witness the transformation of Valencia Street, the Wiggle and, yes, the Presidio over the past 15 years. The presence of cyclists on these streets has helped reduce and slow traffic and made the neighborhoods more liveable. 

We deserve better from the U.S. Attorney’s office. Please follow the law and charge Mr. Low with a felony.