Ride of Silence calls for safer streets and honors those lost on the road | News

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – Cyclists gathered for the 24th annual Ride of Silence tonight to honor riders killed or injured on Tucson roads.

The more than 8 mile Ride of Silence began at Reid Park with a goal of calling for safer streets and honoring those lost on the road. During the ride, organizers asked cyclists to remain silent.

“It is an opportunity to bring people out for bike and cycling advocacy and it’s also a memorial,” Organizer, Damion Alexander said.

Cyclists passed through roads like Country Club, Broadway, Craycroft and more before finishing up where they started at Reid Park. The event began back in 2003 and now takes place in more than 400 locations worldwide.

Tucson Police say this year alone, three bicyclists and 17 pedestrians have died on Tucson roads. Those numbers don’t include motorcyclists.

Cyclists say distracted driving here in Tucson is a real problem. They hope drivers can put their phone down and watch for riders on the road to keep everyone safe.