EVERETT — Family, classmates and community members are mourning the death of a 13-year-old boy who died Monday after colliding with a braided cable while riding his electric bicycle in south Everett.
Around 4:30 p.m. Friday, Emiliano “Emi” Munoz was heading south on 5th Avenue West when he struck a cable strung between a fence post and a traffic bollard across a lot near the 8800 block, according to the Everett Police Department.
Everett Fire crews arrived within three minutes of dispatch, according to police. Everett police also responded. The boy was transported to Harborview Medical Center.
“I’m absolutely heart broken about this tragic loss,” said Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin in a statement. “Please keep this child’s loved ones and his Explorer Middle School community in your thoughts as they grieve.”
Lit candles, flowers and balloons marked the place where Emiliano collided with the cable. Posters made by students read “RIP Emi,” and chalk messages on the pavement included his football number, #20, and the initials “LLE” — short for “Long Live Emi.”
On Wednesday, about 35 teens gathered at the growing memorial at the site of the crash. Many wore blue — Emiliano’s favorite color. It was the second day students assembled at the site, with plans to continue meeting after school throughout the week, a student said.
“He was a very bright soul,” one student said, surrounded by a huddle of classmates. “You could never catch him not smiling.”
“We are saddened to learn of Emiliano’s death and send condolences to his family and loved ones,” said Diane Bradford, spokesperson for Mukilteo School District. “The school is supporting staff and students who are grieving the loss of a cherished friend from their school community. It’s a significant impact to all who knew him and the ripples can be felt by those who didn’t.”
The school has brought in therapy dogs and other support services to help students process the loss.
As of 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, an online fundraiser to help with medical and funeral expenses for Emiliano’s family has raised more than $6,640.
The cable has since been removed, police said. Detectives from the Traffic Safety Unit are still investigating the incident.
Aspen Anderson: 425-339-3192; aspen.anderson@heraldnet.com; X: @aspenwanderson.
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