Erik Radley, R.I.P.: Vigil Held for Latest Motorcyclist Killed in Metro Denver

In recent months, we've written frequently about victims of fatal motorcycle crashes in Colorado. Those who've lost their lives include Denver Sheriff's Department Deputy Lori Clyncke, who died in March. And we also noted the shocking number of traffic fatalities in Aurora circa 2015 — seventeen through mid-June, including a cyclist...

By Michael Roberts

September 8, 2015

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In recent months, we've written frequently about victims of fatal motorcycle crashes in Colorado.

Those who've lost their lives include Denver Sheriff's Department Deputy Lori Clyncke, who died in March.

We also noted the shocking number of traffic fatalities in Aurora — seventeen in 2015 through mid-June, including a cyclist killed near South Sable Boulevard and East Bayaud Avenue.

Afterward, readers debated about who is responsible for such crashes: cyclists or motorists who don't watch for them as carefully as they should.

But there's no debate about how the local motorcycle community felt about Erik Radley.

On Sunday, September 6, according to 9News, Radley was transporting a female passenger when he struck the back of a vehicle near Sheridan and Kentucky. Here's a look at the accident's aftermath....

...and the car that was struck.

The woman riding with Radley was badly injured. Radley was killed.

Last night, approximately 200 people who knew and loved Radley, including many members of the motorcycle community, gathered near the crash site to remember him, as seen in this image....

...and this one:

The turnout reflects not only the ties that bind motorcyclists together in the Denver area and beyond, but also the vulnerability of those who take to the roadways on two wheels rather than four.

Our sincere condolences to the friends, family and loved ones of Erik Radley.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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