Tragedy struck the North Texas triathlon community early Saturday morning when two members of a Frisco triathlon club were hit and killed while cycling on FM 455 East, just east of Fritcher Road.
The Accident
Just before 8:20 a.m. Saturday, Pilot Point police said they received calls reporting that two men on bicycles had been struck by a driver on FM 455 East, just east of Fritcher Road. At the scene, lifesaving measures were attempted by responders, but the cyclists-identified as Andre Kocher and Scott Mages-were transported to hospitals where they later died from their injuries.
Community Response
The incident has left the North Texas triathlon community in mourning, with local men and women who take part in the multi-discipline sport expressing grief.
Statements from Matthew Olivolo
Matthew Olivolo, an Ironman triathlete residing in North Texas, shared his sorrow: “Hearing the news this morning was just devastating. This is tragic for all cyclists and ironman triathletes,” Olivolo said. He added, “There’s a lot of hours on the road on your bike,” and “And you become very close with your peers and develop a brother and a sisterhood that is just unbreakable.”
Meetups and Prayers
Olivolo chose to speak with NBC 5 at Endur3Bikes bike shop, a place where Frisco triathletes gather often, and he noted that the meetups will now be without two adored athletes. He further said, “I can only imagine what the families are going through with this tragic loss. And my prayers go out to them.”
Driver and Investigation
Police said the driver of the vehicle continued driving for a short distance but quickly returned and has been cooperative with the investigation.
Commemorative Run
The Frisco Triathlon Club announced it will host a Santa Run on Christmas Eve to honor Kocher and Mages, a gesture intended to bring the community together and keep the memory of the two cyclists alive. The club’s announcement came as a sign of solidarity and a way to keep the athletes’ legacy alive. Members of the club will participate in the run to support the families and celebrate the impact the athletes had on their lives.
Key Takeaways
- Two Frisco triathletes, Andre Kocher and Scott Mages, were killed early Saturday when hit by a vehicle on FM 455 East.
- Pilot Point police received calls just before 8:20 a.m. and the cyclists were taken to hospitals where they died.
- The driver continued driving briefly, returned, and has been cooperative with investigators.
Community Mourning
The community continues to mourn the loss of two beloved athletes, and the upcoming Santa Run aims to honor their legacy and support their families. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by cyclists and the importance of community support in times of tragedy.
