EL CENTRO — An online fundraiser is underway for 14-year-old Braden Coyne, who died on Friday evening, Aug. 22, from injuries sustained in a collision between Braden’s e-bike and a pickup truck.
Titled “BradenForeverRidin” on Spotfund, more than $5,600 had been raised as of Monday morning, Aug. 25 — more than 50 percent of its $10,000 goal.
“Many are asking how they (can) support the Coynes at this time. The meal train is full for two months out. We would like to make a memorial in honor of Braden’s memory and make shirts and hats for the community. Any remaining funds will be donated to a nonprofit for raising rider awareness and safety,” according to the Spotfund site dedicated to Braden, which asks to respect the family’s privacy at this time.
To donate, go to: http://spot.fund/2vj7n7bsc
According to the California Highway Patrol, the accident occurred around 7:40 p.m. Friday when Braden was driving his e-bike (electric motorcycle) west on Aten Road approaching Silsbee Road several miles west of El Centro.
A 17-year-old male was driving a white Toyota Tacoma east on Aten Road, also approaching Silsbee Road. At some point and for reasons unknown to the Highway Patrol, the e-bike and the truck collided, ejecting the teen.
The driver of the Toyota pulled over, called 911 and waited for CHP to arrive, the agency stated.
Emergency personnel transported Braden to El Centro Regional Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries, according to the Highway Patrol.
The CHP stated that at this point in the investigation, it is believed impairment was not a factor in the crash. The driver of the Toyota was wearing a seatbelt and not injured during the collision, and the rider of the e-bike was wearing a bicycle helmet. The crash remains under investigation.
