The 28-year-old cyclist killed in a collision with a dump truck June 29 in downtown Vancouver has been identified as Agustin Beltran.
Beltran was a first-year PhD student at UBC's Vancouver School of Economics and was a native of Mexico.
"We are shocked and devastated over Agustín’s death. This is a tremendous loss for the UBC community and our tight-knit PhD program. We extend our deepest sympathies to Agustín’s family, friends, and peers. We share in their grief today, and in the days to come," shared Dr. Patrick Francois, Professor & Director, Vancouver School of Economics, in a statement.
The fatal collision took place at about 7:30 a.m. on the 29th at the corner of Pacific and Hornby. Beltran was killed when he collided with a dump truck.
Efforts to save the cyclist’s life were made by first responders but they were unsuccessful and Beltran died at the scene.
A Vancouver Police Department investigation into the deadly crash is ongoing.
Memorial rides honour avid cyclist
Two memorial rides in honour of Beltran were held over the weekend - one in his hometown of Mexico City and one in downtown Vancouver.
Organized at the behest of Beltran parents, the event was promoted by local cycling advocacy group HUB.
Cyclists took to the streets of Vancouver starting at 11 a.m. Sunday from the Vancouver Art Gallery.
"Around 200 people rode to honour the memory of a young man killed while riding his bike in Vancouver," tweeted participant Ken Ohrn, who also shared on Twitter appreciation for the VPD sending officers on bicycles to ensure the ride went smoothly on what he called a "sad but inspiring day."
The ride took participants through downtown and Vancouver's iconic Stanley Park - an important cycling location for many in Vancouver. Organizers arranged for participants to be able to listen to Beltran's favourite playlist as they rode.
Among the attendees was Beltran's fiancée.
"Listening to Agustín’s fiancé[e] Renata speak about how she felt getting back on her bike supported by our community was incredibly special," shared one rider via Twitter.
Emotions were similarly high in Mexico City. "The ride in Mexico City was also full of people who loved Agus. It was great to honour him by doing what he loved, all together," said Cecilia Berlanga.
If anyone has information about the collision that claimed Beltran's life they are asked to contact VPD’s Collision Investigation Unit at 604-717-3012.
A look at the ride in Mexico City to honour Beltran
