MANHATTAN, KANSAS — 13-Year-Old Boy Dies from Injuries After Bicycle Accident, Community in Mourning
MANHATTAN, KANSAS — The Manhattan community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of a 13-year-old boy who passed away on October 20, 2025, following injuries sustained in a bicycle accident earlier in the week. The tragic incident has left family members, classmates, and neighbors in shock as they remember a young life taken far too soon.
According to the Riley County Police Department, officers responded to the scene of a serious bicycle accident near the intersection of Kimball Avenue and Browning Place on the afternoon of October 15. Witnesses told investigators that the child was riding his bicycle when he was struck by a passing vehicle. Emergency medical personnel arrived within minutes and immediately provided aid before transporting him to Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Manhattan.
Authorities stated that the child was later airlifted to a Kansas City trauma center for specialized care due to the severity of his injuries. Despite several days of intensive medical treatment and continuous support from family and loved ones, he succumbed to his injuries five days later. Police confirmed his passing on October 20.
Preliminary findings from the investigation indicate that the collision occurred during daylight hours, and the driver of the vehicle involved remained at the scene and cooperated fully with law enforcement. No citations or arrests have been made at this time, as authorities continue to examine all factors contributing to the tragic incident, including speed, visibility, and roadway conditions.
Riley County Police have requested that anyone with additional information or potential dashcam footage come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation. Officials emphasized that such contributions could help bring clarity to the events leading up to the crash.
The Manhattan-Ogden USD 383 School District issued a statement expressing deep sorrow over the loss, describing the young boy as a bright, kind-hearted student who brought joy to those around him. Counselors and grief support teams have been made available to students and staff as they process the devastating news.
Neighbors and friends have begun leaving flowers, cards, and balloons near the site of the crash in remembrance. A candlelight vigil has also been planned by community members to honor his memory, celebrating his love for sports, laughter, and friendship that touched so many lives in such a short time.
Authorities reminded residents to use extra caution in neighborhoods and near schools, especially where children frequently ride bicycles or walk. They urged both drivers and young riders to remain vigilant, noting that simple awareness can prevent tragic accidents.
The Riley County Police Department extended condolences to the family, expressing gratitude to the emergency crews, hospital staff, and community members who have offered their support. They said the final accident report will be released once all evidence and witness statements have been reviewed.
As Manhattan continues to grieve, residents are coming together to honor the life of a young boy whose kindness and energy left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. His passing serves as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be — and how deeply one child’s spirit can unite an entire community.