2 dead after dirt bike crash in North Huntingdon, Westmoreland County
NORTH HUNTINGDON, Pa. (KDKA) - Two people have died after a dirt bike crash in North Huntingdon, Westmoreland County.
Westmoreland County Coroner Tim Carson confirmed that two people, Adam Bilinsky, 19, and a juvenile, later identified as Colin Bargiel, were killed along Ridge Road just before 3 p.m. Sunday.
Both victims were originally reported missing, but police say during a search, they learned the victims were involved in the crash.
A small memorial is now beginning to grow off Ridge Road in North Huntingdon.
"He was coming down this road, and I heard they were missing, and then I heard they crashed into the ditch over there," said Bentley Stepien, a friend of the victims. "I used to always go fishing with them. We ride dirt bikes occasionally. It's sad to see them gone."
Friends of the victims could be seen gathering together at the crash site Sunday, leaving flowers and telling stories in their memory.
"It's very heartbreaking. There's nothing you can do about it," Stepien said.
Coroner Carson stated that both Bilinsky and Bargiel were on a Kawasaki KLX 330RS dirt bike, traveling northeast on Ridge Road.
The dirt bike left the right side of the roadway and went down an embankment. Both victims were launched from the dirt bike and were pronounced deceased at the scene, according to Deputy Coroner Steven A. Whiteman.
Both Bilinsky and Bargiel were not wearing a helmet at the time of the wreck.
"You can think about it, and talk about the memories with your friends, but you can't do anything."
The causes and manners of death for both individuals are still pending.
Dr. Jeff Taylor, the Superintendent of the Norwin School District, has provided a statement on the deaths of the victims.
It is with a heavy heart that I must inform you of the passing of two individuals within our school community. Colin Bargiel, a current student at Norwin High School, and Adam J. Bilinsky, a former Norwin student currently enrolled at the Commonwealth Charter School, have tragically passed away.
The loss of these individuals can evoke a range of emotions and may have a profound impact on our students and colleagues. During this challenging time, it is essential for us to come together as a community to support one another.
I want to assure you that the Norwin School District is here to provide support and assistance to all employees, students, and their families who may be affected by this loss.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families and friends of Colin Bargiel and Adam J. Bilinsky as they navigate this difficult time. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
A grief counseling team will be available to assist students expressing a need for help.
