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Prince George RCMP and the Canadian Cancer Society confirmed Friday morning that the cyclist critically injured by a hit-and-run driver while riding his bicycle on a residential Prince George street Monday morning has died of his injuries.
The Prince George man was identified as Shane Kelly, a 40-year-old civilian rider in the Cops For Cancer — Tour de North charity ride.
“We are heartbroken by this news. Shane was a caring and enthusiastic team builder from the very beginning, offering camaraderie, encouragement and support to the entire Tour de North team,” said Laura Nelson, manager of Cops For Cancer, Canadian Cancer Society.
“He was driven by a deep commitment to make a difference for children with cancer. Shane’s teammates are devastated by the loss of one of their own, in such tragic circumstances. We offer our sincere condolences and unwavering support to Shane’s family and friends.”
Kelly was on a training ride with another Tour de North rider, an RCMP officer when they were both struck by the passing vehicle, a Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck. The driver fled the scene of the accident at Ospika Boulevard and McRae Avenue at high speed and was later arrested at a townhouse residence near the where the collision occurred.
Kelly was airlifted to hospital in Vancouver, where he later died. The officer suffered a broken leg and other internal injuries.
“Shane’s family is taking time to grieve privately and has requested space during this difficult period,” said Prince George RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Jennifer Cooper.
"If you would like to share your condolences or well-wishes, they can be brought to the Prince George RCMP Detachment at 455 Victoria St. Messages will be gathered and passed along to the family when they are ready to receive them. Your kindness and support are greatly appreciated."
The 850-kilometre ride in September from Prince George to Prince Rupert was to raise money for childhood cancer research and treatment. Kelly was the leading fundraiser on the Tour de North team.
"Shane was more than just a cyclist. He was a husband, a father, a mentor, and a friend," said Tour de North rider Ron Gallo, in a Facebook post. "He was a caring and generous person who gave of himself to help others. His fundraising was a passion as a teammate and supporter of Wheelin' Warriors of the North and Cops for Cancer — Tour de North.
"His kindness and dedication touched lives far beyond the cycling world. I have received and continue to hear messages from people who were inspired by Shane and made better through knowing him. Despite holding onto hope, despite preparing ourselves for the inevitable, this loss cuts deep."
The investigation is ongoing. Cooper is asking for the public’s help and for anyone who witnessed the accident or who has dash cam footage to call Prince George RCMP at 250-561-3300.
