Security footage from local businesses shows a bicyclist traveling in the same direction a few seconds before the victim. Anyone with information should call the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 360-778-6663 and reference case No. 26A24488. (Photo courtesy of Whatcom County Sheriff's Office)
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A Whatcom County family is searching for answers after Cole Hilton was struck while training for the Tour de Whatcom along North Lake Samish Drive on July 11. He later died from his injuries.
“It is with profound sadness that I share the heartbreaking loss of my husband, Cole. We are still trying to process this unimaginable reality while seeking answers.”
Linda Hilton
The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office is investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision. Hilton’s family is asking residents around Lake Samish to preserve security footage that could help investigators determine what happened.
Deputies Respond Near Prescott Lane
Multiple deputies responded at about 1:40 p.m. to North Lake Samish Drive near Prescott Lane. Someone had reported an injured and unconscious bicyclist alongside the road.
Firefighters and emergency medical personnel were already treating Hilton when deputies arrived. First responders transported him to PeaceHealth St. Joseph Medical Center.
Crime scene investigators and members of the sheriff’s office Traffic Unit documented and analyzed the scene.
Investigators Seek Another Bicyclist
Security footage from a nearby business shows another bicyclist traveling in the same direction several seconds before Hilton, according to the sheriff’s office.
“We hope to locate this bicyclist to determine whether they have any additional information regarding this incident,” the sheriff’s office said.
Authorities have describe the bicyclist as a possible witness, so they hope the pictures help identify the individual.
Family Requests Camera Footage
Hilton’s family is asking people who live along North Lake Samish Road to review doorbell and security camera footage recorded between 1 and 2 p.m. July 11.
The request also extends to homes along East Lake Samish Drive and near entrances to the Lake Samish area. Video showing passing bicycles or vehicles could help investigators reconstruct what occurred.
Anyone with information should call the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office tip line at 360-778-6663 and reference case No. 26A24488.
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