With “Ride of Silence” in Harrisburg, cyclists honor cyclists killed in Pennsylvania last year

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Cyclists in Harrisburg rode in silence to the Capitol on Wednesday to honor the 27 people who died while cycling on Pennsylvania roads last year.

Riders took part in the “Ride of Silence” to the steps of the Capitol, which featured 27 white bicycles in memory of the 27 who died, as well as one red bicycle in memory of those injured in the streets.

“It hit me emotionally because I love cycling,” said participant Marie Roof. “Several of my friends, including me, have been injured by vehicles that hit us or may not have followed all traffic rules.”

The cyclists remembered those who lost their lives by placing roses on the white bicycles on the steps of the Capitol to remember them and send a message to both cyclists and drivers to be mindful of their surroundings.

“First, we need our cyclists to pay attention to traffic laws and stop when they are supposed to stop,” said Jenifer Donnelly of Recycle Bike Harrisburg. “Secondly, motorists need to pay attention to traffic laws and give cyclists a four-footer when overtaking and ensure they look out for cyclists wherever they go.”

The message was also directed at the people in the Capitol who should advocate for greater traffic safety to keep cyclists alive.

But the main focus was on the drivers who weren’t there and making sure the 27 people who lost their lives doing what they loved didn’t do it in vain.

“To me it means keeping people safe,” Roof said. “The recognition of the people who were not doing so well and who had accidents is a role model for the future for us.”

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