Timothy Jenks, a member of the Ames Cyclones Aquatic Club (ACAC) in Ames, Iowa was killed Thursday when he fell off of his bike in front of an SUV.
According to the Ames Tribune, the 13-year old Jenks was riding as part of a group with two lines of four, side-by-side. His front wheel clipped the wheel of a rider in front of him, which moved his bicycle to the right.
While the group wasn’t certain as to how exactly Jenks fell in front of the SUV, they believe it was either through over-compensation for the leftward movement or if he hit the wheel of the rider in front of him a second time.
The driver of the SUV told police that she slowed down below the speed limit and was fully in the left lane before attempting to pass the group, though officials are still investigating the incident.
Jenks would have been a freshman at Ames High School in the fall: a team that placed 13th at last year’s Iowa High School State Championship meet.
Jenks died at the scene, and was wearing a helmet at the time.
Our condolences go out to Jenks’ family, friends, and the Ames swimming family for the tragic loss.
This is so sad. And it’s right before the grinnell meet! He was going to swim the mile with me but clearly did not!
Tim was the smartest person I knew. It pains me greatly to know he is now gone. And I know it is many time harder on his family. But it is also sad to know that the world does not understand what an amazing soul has been lost.
My condolences to the Jenks’ family. This is really sad to hear. I remember Timothy was in ACPC with me in elementary school, and recently participated in the Solo/Ensemble festival at AMS. He was smart and a kind individual, and it’s really sad to think he is gone.
This is really sad news. I’m really sorry for your loss.