Crime & Safety
Update: Teen Cyclist in Fatal Accident Identified
The B.C. Cancer Foundation has shared a statement from the family of Xavier Pelletier, the 16-year-old cyclist from Victoria, B.C., who died in a traffic accident Sunday during the Ride to Cure Cancer.
On behalf of Xavier Pelletier’s family:
“We are heartbroken to share the news that yesterday morning we lost our much loved family member Xavier Pelletier in a tragic accident during the Ride to Conquer Cancer.
At 16 years of age, Xavier was a talented young athlete who died riding in support of his uncle who is a cancer survivor. A gentle soul, he was passionate about cycling and cared deeply for his family, friends and community.
On behalf of our family, we would like to express our heartfelt appreciation to the many who attended the scene including: first responders, Arlington (WA) police and fire services, volunteers, and fellow riders, who compassionately came to Xavier’s aid. Their immediate support and tireless efforts give us comfort in the knowledge that nothing more could have been done to save his young life.
We respectfully request privacy as we grieve the loss of a son, brother, nephew, grandson and friend who touched all of our hearts deeply. In lieu of flowers, please send any gifts in support of the Ride to Conquer Cancer through the BC Cancer Foundation.”
- Nigel Halsted, on behalf of Xavier Pelletier’s family
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Original story, June 17.
A teen from Victoria, B.C., was struck by a car and killed Sunday, June 16 in Arlington while on a charity ride to Redmond.
According to a report in the Seattle Times, the 16-year-old, who has not been identified, was participating in the two-day BC Ride to Cure Cancer with family members and more than 2,600 other cyclists when the accident happened.
According to news reports, the teen was attempting to pass a group of riders when he fell off his bike and was struck by a car. Authorities called the collision an accident, and said that the driver, an Arlington woman, was not speeding.
Doug Nelson, President and CEO, of the BC Cancer Foundation, released this statement following the accident:
Shortly after 10:00am this morning, there was a fatal accident involving a rider in the Ride to Conquer Cancer.
All of those who are associated with The Ride to Conquer Cancer have been deeply-saddened by this news and our thoughts and prayers are with the rider's family and friends.
Find out what's happening in Redmondwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Since the accident occurred, members of the BC Cancer Foundation have been with the family of the rider to support them in any way possible.
I have personally spoken with the family and shared my condolences, and they ask for privacy at this time. They request the rider’s personal information and details about the accident not be made public. We hope media will be respectful of their wishes.
Find out what's happening in Redmondwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Staff involved with The Ride to Conquer Cancer are working closely with local authorities and will assist in every way possible.
This has been a very sad day for The Ride community and our supporters.
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