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Police arrest woman who allegedly struck bicyclist after stealing from department store

Salem police on Tuesday arrested a woman suspected of hitting a bicyclist after shoplifting a TJ Maxx last weekend.

Desiree Katherine LaMorte, 28, was charged with second-degree assault, second-degree theft and failing to perform the duties of a driver.

The bicyclist — 61-year-old Montana Carver, of Salem – is still in the hospital in critical but stable condition, according to agency spokeswoman Debra Aguilar.

Police said LaMorte was identified as the driver through tips and arrested her with the help of the Portland Police Bureau. Investigators are still looking for a second woman suspected of being involved in the crime.

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LaMorte is lodged in the Marion County Jail.

LaMorte has been charged with driving while suspended three times in the last five years, according to court records.

Have a tip? Contact reporter Saphara Harrell at 503-549-6250, [email protected] or @daisysaphara.