A tragic incident in Los Angeles has claimed the lives of a pregnant mother and her unborn daughter, leaving a family devastated and a community in mourning. Regan Cole-Graham, a 36-year-old mother-of-two, was killed while riding an electric bicycle with her husband and young children on Saturday evening.
Details of the Fatal Collision
The accident occurred at approximately 6pm on Pershing Drive in Los Angeles. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, a white sedan traveling in the same direction suddenly struck Cole-Graham's electric bike. The impact was severe, sending both Cole-Graham and an unidentified passenger on the bike flying through the air.
Emergency Response and Hospital Pronouncements
First responders from the Los Angeles Fire Department rushed to the scene and transported Cole-Graham and the passenger to a nearby hospital. Tragically, Cole-Graham was pronounced dead upon arrival. In a heartbreaking turn of events, her unborn daughter, whom she had been carrying for seven months, was also pronounced dead overnight on Sunday.
Family and Community Response
Organizers of an online fundraiser established to cover funeral expenses and future costs for Cole-Graham's two young sons shared the devastating news about the unborn child. The fundraiser described Cole-Graham as 'a loving and devoted wife, a fierce and joyful mother, a hilarious and loyal sister and a beautiful, fiery daughter.'
Fundraiser Gains National Attention
The campaign gained significant traction when it was shared by journalist Chris Cillizza on Monday. Cillizza, who described Graham as a friend from his college years, appealed to the public for support. 'I understand that not everyone is in the financial position to donate,' he wrote on social media platform X. 'But if you are, please give what you can to my friend, who has had his entire life change in the space of the last two days.'
As of Monday evening, the fundraiser had garnered nearly $122,000 in donations, demonstrating an outpouring of support for the grieving family.
Ongoing Investigation
The Los Angeles Police Department's West Traffic Division has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash. Authorities are working to determine the exact cause of the collision and whether any charges will be filed.
This tragic event highlights the vulnerabilities of cyclists on urban roads and has sparked conversations about road safety in Los Angeles. The community continues to rally around the Graham family during this unimaginably difficult time.
