Jonathon Dechau: Cat 1 cyclist killed by motorist in Western New York

It's lucky that I found this information, as I was just browsing the Bike Forums website that I just joined tonight. (check the link to see the outpouring of anger, regret and condolences to this tragic event) Jonathon was a very successful Cat 1 competitor in Western, NY; Rochester area to be exact. While I never knew him personally, I know that we have a lot of common friends - in the year he started out racing (1989), I was president of the Genesee Valley Cycling Club. The scary part is that I've trained on the road where this accident occurred.

Cyclist Killed Near Rochester, NY By Alan Cote
Every cyclist's worst fear was realized for Jon Dechau on the evening of September 13. Dechau,
33, was killed after being struck from behind by a motorist. The accident occurred in Lima, New York, about 20 miles south of Rochester.
The Livingston County sheriff's office said that Dechau was riding westbound on the shoulder of
route 20 approximately two feet to the right of the white line.A sheriff's spokesman said a westbound vehicle driven by Sharon Cameron, 61, crossed the white line and struck Dechau from behind at approximately 45-50 mph, and Dechau died at the scene.
Cameron could not provide an explanation to police as to why her vehicle drifted from the travel lane to the shoulder. She freely submitted to a blood test as part of the accident investigation, and police do not believe she was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Results of investigation will determine if charges will be filed against Cameron.
Dechau was a champion cyclist who began racing with the Genesee Valley Cycling Club in
1989. His cycling accomplishments included winning numerous medals at the Empire State Games and State Championships, competing in the 2000 Olympic trials, and two top-20 finishes in the US National Time Trial Championships. In late 2000 signed to ride as pro for the ill-fated Noblehouse team, before turning his attention to family and work in more recent years. A man of deep Christian faith, he leaves his wife Debbie, 9 year old son Tyler, and new born baby (Lillian Page). Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Please click on the title of this message to be directed to the GVCC site where many pictures of Jonathon can be viewed. Jonathon's Cycling Team, JW Dundee's Ales & Lagers has a blog where some very heartfelt comments are posted by friends and team mates.