22-year old Tijl de Decker has succumbed to injuries suffered in a training crash. The Lotto Dstny Development Team rider has passed away this morning after suffering serious injuries.
"Tijl De Decker was involved in a crash today. He was brought to a local hospital where he underwent surgery," Lotto Dstny wrote on their social media yesterday. "Later today he was transported to the UZA. More news about the consequences of the crash will follow after further examinations. Our thoughts & prayers are with Tijl."
It is reported that de Decker was out on a training ride when he hit the back of a car, losing a lot of blood in the process. He is currently in a coma. “The accident took place on a public road, outside the center," a spokesperson for the Lier police told Het Nieuwsblad.
"The cyclist was seriously injured and taken to hospital. It remains to be seen how his condition evolves. A traffic expert from the public prosecutor's office has arrived on site, an investigation is underway into the exact circumstances. I can confirm that a passenger car was involved in the accident.”
UPDATE: On Friday morning the Belgian team announced the passing of De Decker. The cycling world unites around another victim of what is ultimately a dangerous job. CyclingUpToDate would like to extend it's condolences to friends and family of Tijl.
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Tijl De Decker, following a training accident past Wednesday. The team is heartbroken by this news and sends all of its love and thoughts to Tijl’s family and loved ones in this incredibly difficult time ❤️
