A popular mountain biker and mechanic was shot while riding on trails in a seemingly unprovoked attack last week.
61-year-old Tim Watkins went for his daily ride on September 14 in Monument, Colorado and was reported missing later that night by his wife when he had not returned. He was found dead and partially buried on September 17 by a hiker and an investigation has been ongoing since.
Some photos from the family of Timothy Watkins. pic.twitter.com/8oWZiledPT
— EPCSheriff (@EPCSheriff) September 18, 2017
Watkins was shot multiple times in an attack that has left police with no leads. There are currently no suspects or motive discovered however, over 150 tips have ben passed onto police and a man has been seen waving a hatchet at riders in the area in recent days.
Victim in Mount Herman Area Homicide identified. Our deepest sympathies to the Mr. Watkins family and friends: https://t.co/Tji5m8Ye5q pic.twitter.com/rQH7n22EBG
— EPCSheriff (@EPCSheriff) September 18, 2017
Watkins was well loved in the local scene. Reports suggest he was a keen trail advocate and always willing to help out a lost cyclist or offer some advice. He worked for over ten years with frame builder Jeff Tessier. Tessier said: “I think of Tim as a legend in the mountain bike community. He had a passion for riding and loved it so dearly.”
A vigil was held in the area last weekend with hundreds of cyclists turning up, most of them wore shirts with the hashtag #BeLikeTim.
The Sheriff’s Office released the following tips:
– Never go alone. Use the buddy system.
– Always tell someone where you are going and when you anticipate being back.
– Know your route and stick to your route.
– Take a fully-charged cellphone with you.
– Remain aware of your surroundings at all times.
– Report anything suspicious to law enforcement.
People also are encouraged “to continue to be vigilant,” the release says. Anyone who sees anything “suspicious or out of the ordinary” is asked to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 390-5555 or call its tip line at 520-6666.
Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Tim’s family and friends at this difficult time.
