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An Oregon couple were killed this week after a piece of lumber fell from a passing truck and struck them while they were biking in California.
Christian Deaton, 52, and his 48-year-old wife, Michelle, both of Portland, were cycling along the Silverado Trail in Napa Valley Tuesday when a load of lumber on a passing flatbed truck fell off and hit them, the California Highway Patrol said.
CHP Officer Vince Pompliano said the incident occurred around 11 a.m.
Pompliano said Christian Deaton was pronounced dead at the scene and Michelle Deaton succumbed to her injuries after being transported to Queen of the Valley Medical Center.
The truck driver, a 55-year-old man from Vallejo, remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators, Pompliano said.
How the wood became dislodged is still under investigation.
The Deatons were identified by the Napa County coroner on Wednesday but an official cause of death has not been released.
Friends told KTVU the couple were “very skilled athletes,” enthusiastic cyclists and loved traveling.
“Cycling is their major love. Traveling a second love,” Josh Ring told the station.
“We’re not angry, but we’re comforted that they went together. And we believe they’re in a better place in heaven right now,” he said.
Central Valley Builders, the owner of the lumber company, said in a statement it was working with investigators.
“We are devastated by this news, and our deepest sympathies are with the victims’ families and loved ones,” the company added.
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David Matthews
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