The Lee’s Summit community has been devastated by the death of 14-year-old Noah Lakey, an outgoing eighth grader at Summit Lakes Middle School, who was riding his bike.
Lakey was cycling along the sidewalk near SW Jefferson Road and SW Scherer Road when he crossed into the westbound lane and struck with a vehicle, according to police.
He was brought to a local hospital, where he passed away. The driver was assessed on the spot and did not require medical attention.
Noah was just a few weeks away from starting his freshman year of high school, a milestone he will never attain. Following his passing, family friends started a GoFundMe campaign, which has already earned over $20,000 in a single day.
According to Amber Rollins, Director of Kansas City-based Kids and Cars Safety, this tragedy is sadly not uncommon.
“As a mother, my heart is broken for this family and this community,” Rollins told reporters.
“I’m sure there are so many people who loved this young man and are completely shattered.”
According to the organisation, around 400,000 accidents involving children, bikes, and cars occur each year, with nearly 300 deaths.
With summer vacation started and more youngsters outside, Rollins asks families and drivers to be extra vigilant.
“It only takes one split second of distraction for something horrible to happen,” she added.
“Safety may not be on the top of kids’ minds, but we need to make sure it is — talk to your children, tell them Noah’s story, and honour him by being safe.”
Rollins emphasised the need of wearing a helmet, calling it a non-negotiable aspect of bike safety.
According to the Lee’s Summit Police Department, the investigation is still underway, but the crash looks to have been a terrible accident.
Students, teachers, and community members touched by Noah’s death will get support from the school district.
Reference: Lee’s Summit community mourns loss of 14-year-old killed in bicycle crash