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Fred Lupke, 58, a popular Berkeley activist for the disabled community, was seriously injured Thursday evening when his wheelchair was struck by a car as he was crossing Ashby Avenue. 

Berkeley Police Officer Matthew Meredith said Lupke was taken to Eden Medical Center in Castro Valley, where he was rushed into surgery for head injuries. 

He was listed in critical condition Thursday evening. 

The driver of the car stopped and remained at the scene. She told officers she hadn’t seen Lupke. She was not arrested, Meredith said. 

The accident occurred at 6:07 p.m. between Harper and Ellis streets. Lupke’s wheelchair was struck from behind by the car’s right front bumper, knocking him to the ground, said the officer. 

Lupke is a familiar figure in Berkeley, and an active volunteer in the antiwar and disabled movements. He has been a frequent visitor at the Daily Planet, where he has helped with the community calendar.