Omaha cyclists fundraise for homeless rider's death near Hanscom Park

Charles Holmes was tragically killed when he was hit by a car while riding his bike near Hanscom Park on December 9. As a homeless man, his family is unable to afford burial expenses. In response, his friends at a central Omaha bike shop have organized fundraising efforts. Holmes was a dedicated volunteer at the Community Bike Project, where he enjoyed working on BMX bikes and participating in community rides. Stacy, a member of the bike shop, highlighted the importance of bicycles for people experiencing homelessness as a means of essential transportation for daily activities like grocery shopping and commuting to work. His friends are working to raise funds to support his family in laying him to rest properly. This tragic incident is the second fatal crash involving a member of the Community Bike Project in two years, underscoring the need for safer infrastructure and protected bike lanes to prevent further tragedies. Advocates are calling for a more progressive approach to alternative transportation to ensure pedestrian safety. For those interested in supporting the fundraising efforts, updates will be shared on The Community Bike Project's social media channels.