It’s probably happened to most of us at one time of another.
You catch a wheel in a rut, and fight to stay upright. Or go down, and walk away with road rash or a broken bone or two.
But you don’t die.
Yet that’s what happened yesterday, when a well-loved member of the LA riding community lost his life after hitting a rut on the popular, pro-level Montrose ride.
From what I’ve been told, Virgo Datu was riding with the group when his wheel caught a rut, then hit a curb and a light post. He was hospitalized with internal injuries, including a collapsed lung, and broken ribs that apparently punctured the other, and died this morning.
A Facebook post, which I can’t seem to embed or link to, mentions Datu’s family and fiancé, as well as numerous friends. I’m also told he was a very skilled and experienced bicyclist.
He’s clearly someone who will be very missed.
This is at least the 20th bicycling fatality in Southern California this year, and the 6th that I’m aware of in Los Angeles County.
This is a developing story, so please contact me with any additional information or corrections.
Update: A crowdfunding campaign has been set up to help cover the unexpected funeral and memorial arrangements.
My deepest sympathy and prayers for Virgo Datu and all his family and loved ones.
Thanks to Zachary, Gary and Brett for their help putting this story together.
I represented another rider who died on the Montrose ride in March 2017 after hitting a pothole on Huntington. This is very sad. Cities and Counties pay lip service to safe streets but thats about it. I know exactly where this occurred. SMH
I remember that one, Steve. Edgar Lim. I hope you got a good settlement for his family. Can you tell me where this one happened? I haven’t seen a location yet.
It’s on Foothill Blvd in Arcadia, cross street is Valencia Way
Thank you.
Its a travesty that our streets are riddled with potholes and broken pavement considering the taxes we pay. If LA were forced to endure it’s own LADBS inspection ot wouldn’t pass.
So truly sorry to hear this.
This is so heartbreaking, my thoughts and prayers are with Virgo’s family and friends.
I’ve hit the deck a few times in the last 40 plus years riding. A few times from cracks and such. Now that I’m in my mid 60s I find myself traveling to the best roads in order to put in my fitness miles. Your connective tissues remind you of every fall when your 60+ I will mention your loss of a freind at our coffee social rolling the group ride. Alexander Ontario Canada.
I’ve hit the deck a few times in the last 40 plus years riding. A few times from cracks and such. Now that I’m in my mid 60s I find myself traveling to the best roads in order to put in my fitness miles. Your connective tissues remind you of every fall when your 60+ I will mention your loss of a freind at our coffee social rolling the group ride. Alexander Ontario Canada.