Scott Mages,Andre Kocher Obituary, Death; – Two individuals tragically lost their lives on Saturday morning while engaged in a group cycling event with the Frisco Triathlon Club in Denton County, as reported by Pilot Point police.
Emergency responders from Pilot Point and the Celina Fire Department arrived at the scene of the accident around 8:30 a.m. on FM 455 East, close to Fritcher Road.
Authorities have identified the deceased as Scott Mages and Andre Kocher. One of the victims was taken by ambulance to Methodist Celina Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. The other victim was airlifted to Medical City Plano, where he also passed away.
According to police, the driver involved in the incident did not stop immediately after the crash but later returned to the location. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the accident is still ongoing.
Tommy Johnson, a long-time friend of both victims, mentioned that he was meant to join the ride but opted to go to work instead.
“I thought, well, he’ll probably just be out for a few months. He probably won’t be able to do the Little Elm race or something like that, and you know, he’ll be fine,” Johnson stated. “And then a few minutes later, a friend texted that they both passed away. It is just a shock… just numb.”
Johnson, who formed a bond with Mages and Kocher through their mutual passion for triathlons, discussed the dangers cyclists encounter on the roads. “There’s lots of things we do to try to be safe for sure, but we’re always at the mercy of the motorists,” he remarked.
In memory of Mages and Kocher, the Frisco Triathlon Club is hosting a “Santa Run” on Christmas Eve.
The event is set to commence at 8 a.m. on Wednesday at the Frisco Running Company, situated on Legacy Drive between Main Street and Eldorado Parkway. Participants will have the option to select between a 5K and a 1-mile route. Organizers are encouraging runners to don Santa hats or festive attire in remembrance of the two men.
