First ghost bike installed in El Paso, installed in November 2009, for Heinz Duerkop
I slept in that morning and it was just coincidence that he was hit the only day he went alone because normally we would ride together. I want (the memorial) to be a reminder for the person who hit my husband. I’m sure they pass through here every day, and I want them to see it and hopefully admit to what they did.”
—
Margot Duerkop, whose husband was killed by a hit-and-run driver while riding his bicycle a few blocks from his home in the 11200 block of Thunder Cloud Drive in El Paso (article here)
The death was listed as the Crime Stoppers crime of the week in August. Police are asking anyone who has any information about the crime to call Crime Stoppers of El Paso at 566-TIPS (8477) or submit the tip online. Anyone providing information will remain anonymous and, if the tip leads to an arrest, there is a cash reward of up to $1,000.
I remember seeing this memorial and just within the last few months, probably here on flickr. I think it is fitting and yes, it may be macabre, that is the point. Because once you see it, you don’t forget it. I certainly haven’t forgotten this image. And bicyclists need every advantage they can grab.
And it’s funny that you should mention a dork coming along, because that’s exactly my conclusion after initially thinking that this would be such a great tribute for bicyclists who were killed here in Las Vegas….someone would definitely steal the ghost bikes. (Call us cynical!)
— Flickr user desertglitter in response to photo of ghost bike in El Paso
