The 16-year-old cyclist killed in the Ride to Conquer Cancer on Sunday was a Grade 10 student named Xavier Pelletier at Pacific Christian School in Victoria.
Pelletier’s family said in a statement that they are heartbroken by their loss.
“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.”
The family expressed appreciation for the emergency crews, volunteers and fellow riders who helped at the tragic scene.
“Their immediate support and tireless efforts give us comfort in the knowledge that nothing more could have been done to save his young life,” the statement said.
Principal David O’Dell said they first found out about the tragedy on Sunday afternoon, and they were able to gather a crisis team.
“This student was well known by the staff and by students, he’d been with us since Grade 8, he’s had a tremendous impact on the student body, he’s been involved in sports, he’s been involved in school leadership as well,” said O’Dell.
He said there are a lot of professionals in the school community and Victoria to help the students deal with what happened.
“I think his legacy will always be remembered as an engaging, well-liked young man, very involved in sports, very involved in encouraging other students as well.”
O’Dell said the school have set up a blog where students can share their memories online, and they have set up a condolence books around the school as well.
Pelletier was riding in the event for his uncle who had just recently recovered from brain cancer.
The family only had basic insurance coverage for their trip, and are having a hard time covering the costs of the medical bills, and the bills to bring the young man’s body back to Canada.
Across the country, anyone can contribute at any bank with the following information:
Xavier Pelletier Memorial Fund
Transit: 08000
Institution: 003
Account Number: 1009570
The school first confirmed the sad news on their Facebook page Monday morning, that one of their students died over the weekend.
The full statement reads:
“It is with a deep sense of sadness that we acknowledge the tragic death of a grade 10 student here at Pacific Christian School.
He was a well-liked and engaging young man, killed while participating in the Ride to Conquer Cancer. As a faith community we offer up our prayers and practical helps to assist his family during this difficult time. It is our desire to comfort and support them as they deal with the loss of a son and brother.
As students and staff grieve the loss, we have been blessed with an outpouring of professional support services who will be present to meet with staff and students as we cope with this tragic loss.
His presence here at PCS as a student and a young athlete competing in sailing, volleyball, rugby and most recently our TinMan Triathlon will be remembered for years to come. His legacy of generosity and faithfulness will inspire us all to serve better and love more deeply.
On behalf of the Board, staff and community of Pacific Christian School, we offer our heartfelt condolences to the family.”
The teen was killed when he lost his balance and fell into the path of an oncoming vehicle near the intersection of Smokey Point Boulevard and 204th Street in Marysville, near Arlington.
Witnesses reported seeing him try to pass a group of riders and then clip the wheel of another cyclist, causing him to fall in the path of the car.
Little is known about the driver of the car at this time, only that she is a woman in her 50’s, and she is cooperating with the police.
Questions about the safety precautions taken on the ride have arisen since the accident, but Doug Nelson, CEO and President of the BC Cancer Foundation, said safety is their top priority.
“Staff involved with The Ride to Conquer Cancer are working closely with local authorities and will assist in every way possible,” he said in a statement. “Safety is our top priority at The Ride to Conquer Cancer. Event organizers plan year-round to ensure the safety of everyone involved.”
The annual ride is the biggest fundraiser for the BC Cancer Foundation with 2,600 riders taking part this year. About $10.4 million was raised this year.
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