Eagle River, Alaska — A community is mourning the loss of a 15-year-old boy who died days after being struck by a vehicle while riding his bicycle with a friend.
Mason Ryan Stiglich died Saturday, Aug. 15, after suffering life-threatening injuries in the Aug. 12 crash, according to a fundraiser created for his family.
The teenager was riding in Eagle River when he was hit by a vehicle Wednesday evening, leaving him hospitalized with critical injuries.
Family friends and community members are now remembering Stiglich not only for his young age, but also for his enthusiasm for mountain biking and his commitment to helping other young riders stay safe.
Police Describe What Happened
The Anchorage Police Department said officers received a report at approximately 8:13 p.m. Wednesday about a bicyclist who had been struck by a vehicle.
A preliminary investigation determined that a Toyota RAV4 was exiting a parking lot onto the Old Glenn Highway as two bicyclists traveled northbound.
Police said the vehicle struck one of the cyclists.
Authorities did not publicly identify the driver or either cyclist in their initial statement. The victim was identified only as a male juvenile bicyclist.
He was transported to a local hospital with life-threatening injuries and remained there until his death several days later. Police said the driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators.
No arrests had been made in connection with Stiglich’s death, according to authorities.
Teen Was Passionate About Bike Safety
Casey Johnson, a family friend who worked with Stiglich’s father at the Anchorage Fire Department, said the teenager had a strong interest in mountain biking and was particularly passionate about bicycle safety.
Johnson recalled conversations with Stiglich’s mother in which the teen would notice other young riders who were not wearing proper protective equipment.
“He’d be driving in the car and they’d drive by a kid on an e-bike and be like, ‘Mom, he’s not wearing the right helmet,’ ” Johnson said.
The teen’s concern extended beyond his own safety.
According to Johnson, Stiglich wanted other children to be able to ride safely and encouraged people to use the right equipment.
Tragically, Johnson said Stiglich was wearing all of his safety gear when he was struck.
Family Friend Says Teen’s Legacy Can Continue
Johnson said the tragedy has been especially difficult for those who knew Stiglich because of how young he was.
“This is every parent’s worst nightmare, right?” Johnson told Alaska’s News Source. “It’s truly hard to think about, as a parent myself. And I know that the rest of the community is feeling that way.”
He said Stiglich was “such a special kid” and that his passion for bike safety could become part of his lasting legacy. A portion of the money raised for the family is expected to support efforts that highlight and continue Stiglich’s bicycle safety advocacy.
Johnson said carrying forward the causes the teenager cared about would be a meaningful way to honor his memory.
Fundraiser Nears $90,000
As of Tuesday, Aug. 18, the GoFundMe created for Stiglich’s family had raised nearly $90,000.
The fundraiser was established to help the family deal with the unexpected expenses and emotional burden following the teenager’s death.
The fundraiser’s description emphasized the devastating nature of losing a child and the difficult days ahead for his loved ones.
The outpouring of support reflects the impact Stiglich had on those around him and the shock felt throughout the community following his death.
Celebration of Life Planned for Aug. 22
Stiglich’s family and friends are now preparing to say goodbye to the teenager.
A celebration of life is planned for Aug. 22, giving loved ones and members of the community an opportunity to remember his life and the things he cared about.
For those who knew him, Stiglich’s legacy may extend beyond the tragedy itself — through the bicycle safety message he was so passionate about sharing.
At just 15 years old, he had already developed a strong desire to protect other young riders and set an example by using proper safety equipment.
His death has left a grieving family and community, but those who loved him hope his commitment to bicycle safety will continue helping others for years to come.
What do you think would be a meaningful way for a community to honor a teenager who was passionate about bicycle safety? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
