Ride Of Silence Honors Cyclist Killed On Rickenbacker
KEY BISCAYNE (CBS4) - Hundreds of people called attention to the death of South Florida cyclist by taking part in a ride of silence.
In silence, more than 200 cyclists rode on the Rickenbacker Causeway in Key Biscayne as if in a funeral procession, thinking of their fellow cyclists who have lost their lives.
Cyclists like Christophe LeCanne, who died on the Rickenbacker in January of 2010. Prosecutors say accused drunk driver Carlos Bertonatti was behind the wheel.
LeCanne's family attorney, Lee Marks says they are frustrated that a year and a half after the incident, Bertonatti still hasn't stood trial.
"They just want to see justice done. They want to see it done fairly and quickly and in this case it's taking time," Marks told CBS4's Natalia Zea.
Marks says the defense attorney continues to postpone the trial as he prepares his case. And LeCanne's family is upset that Bertonatti is able to live at home in the meantime.
"They were very alarmed at that, because there was a lot of initial talk about whether he would stick around. They were concerned," said Marks.
The cyclists taking part in the ride of silence are concerned there will be more lives lost. The Wednesday evening event was one of several others held across the country.
Many cyclists, like Elena Wascura wore red armbands signifying their own brushes with death.
"A lady backed up and knocked me down. She didn't see me. And thank God she didn't kill me," said Wascura.
Local ride organizer, Marialuisa Dejesus was hit by a car on the Rickenbacker Causeway, but survived.
" We've been lucky enough to still be here and tell a story," she said while tears welled up in her eyes.
And though none of the riders can help LeCanne's family find justice. They are doing what they can to honor him and keep their fellow cyclists safe. And on this ride that means staying silent to make sure their message is heard.
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