Nashville, Tennessee – Mt. Juliet and Nashville’s cycling communities are coming together to honor the memory of 23-year-old Alyssa Milligan, a graduate student at Belmont University, who tragically lost her life in a bike accident. On September 8, Alyssa was cycling with a friend on Highway 100 when a pickup truck driver struck her, leading to her untimely demise.
Cyclists from both Mt. Juliet and Nashville gathered on September 12 to remember Alyssa and raise awareness about the daily dangers cyclists face on the roads. The tragic incident has left the cycling community heartbroken and determined to advocate for safer road conditions.
‘Uganda Studies Program’ shared a post which reads:
It is with our deepest sorrow that we grieve the sudden death of Alyssa Milligan, Fall 2021 Global Health student from Wheaton College. She completed her Global Health internship at ACHERU and was enrolled in school in Nashville to obtain her doctorate degree in physical therapy. She was involved in a biking group there and recently competed in her first Olympic distance triathlon. Alyssa was in a fatal accident while on a bike ride on Friday. Alyssa fully immersed herself during her semester in Uganda, connecting closely with friends on campus and her host families. She embraced cultural humility to the point of being willing to go for a run in a dress, and she was still faster than any of us. 🙂 Alyssa always had a sweet smile and word of encouragement to offer. We were grateful to reconnect with her when she visited Uganda just this past summer; we mourn her passing.
Steve Caldwell of The Veloteers Bicycle Club expressed the overwhelming sense of sorrow within the community, emphasizing the need for accountability for reckless and careless actions on the road. He called for stricter enforcement and punishment in such cases to ensure the safety of cyclists.
Nashville Triathlon Club also expressed sorrow to Alyssa Milligan’s death,
We are heartbroken by the news of friend and NTC member Alyssa Milligan being fatally struck while cycling Friday. New to our club, Alyssa always brought her joyful spirit, generosity, kindness, and encouragement to any swim, bike, run, or event. She raced her first Olympic triathlon just a few weeks ago with her beautiful smile on her face all day. She leaves a remarkable impact on our club members and our community. Please keep Alyssa and her family in your thoughts and prayers today and in the days to come.
A.J. Haney, a member of The Domestiques Cycling Club who rode alongside Alyssa, highlighted the urgent need for increased bike lanes and, more importantly, urged drivers to exercise caution and reduce speed on the roads. He emphasized that studies indicate only minimal delays of 45 to 90 seconds when drivers encounter cyclists, making it a small sacrifice for the safety of all road users.
Alyssa Milligan was not just a passionate cyclist but also an accomplished runner. Those who knew her remember her as an exceptional athlete and a beacon of positivity. Despite her youth, she was known for her infectious smile and unwavering respect and encouragement for others. Her presence on group rides could light up the darkest night.
Metro police have indicated that the driver failed to yield the right of way to Alyssa, leading to the fatal accident. As of now, no charges have been filed as the investigation continues.
In memory of Alyssa, cyclists rode 18 miles in her honor, starting at HWY Park & Ride (Safari Camp Rd.) in Mt. Juliet on the evening of September 12.
The tragic loss of Alyssa Milligan serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for greater awareness and accountability. The cycling community continues to mourn the loss of one of its own, and Alyssa’s memory will forever shine brightly among those who had the privilege of knowing her.
As the investigation into the accident continues, the hope is that her tragic passing will bring about meaningful change, ensuring that all cyclists can enjoy safer rides on the open road.
Categories: News
Source: vothisaucamau.edu.vn
