DECEMBER 22, 2011 ISSUE
Lees-McRae Cyclist Killed in Crash
Tragedy Marks College’s Second Cyclist Death This Year
Freshman cyclist Megan Baab died after being hit by a pickup truck on U.S. 221 in Avery County on December 15.Megan Baab, 19, a freshman at Lees-McRae College and member of its cycling team, was killed December 15 while training on U.S. 221 near Crossnore when an oncoming vehicle crossed the center line and struck her head-on.
Baab was airlifted to Johnson City Medical Center in Tennessee but was pronounced dead soon after arrival.
According to the Highway Patrol’s crash report, the collision was reported at 2:26 p.m. Mitchell James Epley, 19, of Marion, was driving a 1998 Ford pickup south on U.S. 221 when his vehicle traveled left of center and collided with Baab before overturning. Epley, an ASU student, reportedly stated he fell asleep while driving. He was charged with misdemeanor death by vehicle.
Baab, a native of Euless, Texas, was a four-discipline rider for the Lees-McRae cycling team and had competed on the national level at both USA Cycling National Championships (Track and Mountain Bike) this season for the Bobcats. She was slated to compete for Lees-McRae in January at the USA Cycling Cyclocross Championships.
“We all remember Megan as a bright and bubbly member of our campus community,” said President Barry Buxton in a statement. “She always had a smile on her face and a friendly word to say. We send our most heartfelt condolences to her family and friends in Texas and keep them in our thoughts and prayers.”
Baab came to Lees-McRae in August 2011, specializing in Road and Track disciplines. High Country Press could not reach cycling head coach Luke Winger as of press time.
In a statement, Winger said, “Megan was a breath of fresh air to the team. She was incredibly positive and super fun to have around. I’m thankful for the chance to have known her.”
A memorial service for Baab will be held on the Lees-McRae campus in January after students return from their winter break. On December 18, dozens of cyclists in Hurst, Texas, took part in a memorial ride to honor Baab, traveling along her favorite route.
The tragedy is the second to rock the Lees-McRae cycling team and campus in less than a year. On January 19, 2011, Lees-McRae senior Carla Swart was killed after being hit by a truck during a time-trial training session in her native South Africa.
According to the N.C. Department of Transportation, approximately 1,000 bicyclists are involved in police-reported crashes with motor vehicles each year in the state. On average, around 20 are killed and an additional 60 are seriously injured. Children and young adults are the most frequent victims.
Community Interest
News & Notes
Events
Arts & Entertainment
