Two members of a Frisco triathlete club were hit and killed while cycling early Saturday morning, a tragedy that has sent shockwaves through the North Texas triathlon community. The victims, Andre Kocher and Scott Mages, were both active participants in the club’s group rides and had been training together for several months. Their sudden loss has left athletes, coaches, and supporters grappling with grief and disbelief, as they mourn the loss of two cherished teammates and friends. The incident has prompted community leaders to call for increased safety awareness on local roads, urging both motorists and cyclists to remain vigilant and respectful of one another.
Incident
Just before 8:20 a.m. on Saturday, Pilot Point police received a series of emergency calls reporting a bicycle collision involving two men traveling at a typical riding speed. The crash took place on FM 455 East, a stretch of road located just east of Fritcher Road, where the cyclists were moving through a residential area with limited traffic. Witnesses described a sudden impact that caused both riders to be thrown into the roadway, and they reported hearing a screeching sound before the collision. The location was promptly secured by law enforcement to preserve evidence, prevent further accidents, and allow emergency responders to assess the scene without additional interference.
Police Response
Police officials stated that the driver of the vehicle involved continued driving for a brief period before quickly returning to the scene of the crash, a detail that may help clarify the circumstances of the incident. The driver has been cooperative with the ongoing investigation, providing statements and allowing officers to examine the area for forensic evidence and traffic patterns. Authorities attempted lifesaving measures on site, including applying pressure to bleeding wounds, attempting to stabilize the cyclists, and calling for advanced medical care. Both men were then transported to nearby hospitals for advanced medical treatment, where they received intensive care before their conditions unfortunately deteriorated.
Medical Outcome
The cyclists, identified as Andre Kocher and Scott Mages, were taken to hospitals where they ultimately died from their injuries, a tragic outcome that shocked the entire triathlon community. Medical personnel confirmed that both men succumbed to the severity of their wounds despite the efforts of emergency responders and the hospital staff. The death certificates indicate that the cause of death was complications arising from the collision, underscoring the fatal nature of the injuries sustained. Their families were notified by hospital staff following the confirmation of the fatalities, and the community has offered condolences and support through various channels.
Community Reaction
The North Texas triathlete community is mourning after the loss of two of its members, a group that has grown steadily in recent years and is known for its camaraderie and dedication. Local men and women who participate in the multi-discipline sport expressed their devastation through social media posts, community gatherings, and quiet moments of reflection. The tragedy has highlighted the close bonds formed among cyclists who spend countless hours on the road together, reinforcing the sense of brotherhood that the club fosters. Community members are rallying to honor the athletes through memorials, safety initiatives, and by continuing the spirit of shared training that Kocher and Mages exemplified.
Statements from Matthew Olivolo
Matthew Olivolo, an Ironman triathlete who resides in North Texas, spoke with NBC 5 about the tragedy and its impact on the local sporting community. He said, “Hearing the news this morning was just devastating. This is tragic for all cyclists and ironman triathletes.” Olivolo further remarked, “There’s a lot of hours on the road on your bike,” and added that “you become very close with your peers and develop a brother and a sisterhood that is just unbreakable.” He also noted that the club will now meet without two adored athletes, leaving a palpable void that will be felt by everyone who trains with them.
Investigation Details
Police said the driver of the vehicle involved continued driving for a short distance but quickly returned to the scene, a detail that may help clarify the circumstances of the crash. The driver has been cooperative with the investigation, providing statements and allowing officers to gather evidence and assess traffic patterns near the site. No additional information has been released regarding the driver’s identity or the exact cause of the collision, leaving questions that authorities are working to answer. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities encourage anyone with information to come forward to aid in determining the full facts of the incident.
Memorial Event
The Frisco Triathlon Club has announced that it will host a Santa Run on Christmas Eve to honor the memory of Kocher and Mages, a gesture that reflects the club’s commitment to remembrance. The event will bring together members of the club, local athletes, and community supporters to run in tribute to the deceased athletes, fostering a sense of unity. Participants will run along a route that includes familiar spots from the club’s regular training sessions, allowing them to honor the athletes in a setting that holds personal meaning. The run is scheduled for December 24th and is expected to draw a significant turnout, with organizers encouraging participants to bring family and friends to share in the tribute.
Key Takeaways
- Two triathletes, Andre Kocher and Scott Mages, were killed in a bicycle collision on FM 455 East.
- The incident prompted a community response, including a Santa Run on Christmas Eve to honor them.
- Police investigation remains ongoing, with the driver cooperative and returning to the scene shortly after the crash.
The community mourns the loss of two beloved athletes, and the upcoming run serves as a tribute to their memory, reinforcing the bonds that Kocher and Mages helped build. Their passing underscores the risks faced by cyclists on the road, reminding everyone of the importance of vigilance and road safety for all users. The tragedy will be remembered by those who shared their passion for the sport, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations of triathletes.
