Elmira teen killed in BMX crash

Oct 21, 2010
by Tyson Copeland  
People who knew Luke Esgate predicted a bright future for the 17-year-old high school senior.

Esgate’s life was cut short Sunday when he died after crashing his BMX bicycle at an Albany park. Police said he fell and hit his head while jumping his bike...

Read on,

Full story here. Thanks to Kevin Staninger for the photo of Luke doing what he loved.

Video dedicated to the memory of Luke Esgate:
In memory of Luke Esgate

by dropinprod
Views: 27,732    Faves: 201    Comments: 47



photo
Rest In Peace buddy.

*Please note that Luke was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, but it was a neck injury that claimed his life.*


At this time we'd also like to send out a big get well to TJ Lavin. TJ Update here.

Posted In:
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Member since Oct 4, 2009
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395 Comments
  • 22 0
 My condolences to everyone who knew Luke.
  • 21 4
 i have been riding hard core DH for about 5 years [ just turned 67 ] and do almost everything including Whistler,[ Garbanzo Zone ] North Shore, the Sunshine Coast etc; and the ONLY riders not wearing Lids or Neck Braces have way too much testosterone and not enough smarts or are old school and out of touch w/ what is really cool...STAYING ALIVE! i ride with kids 12, 15, 32 [ my son ] and older - i see more and more riders of all styles riding with neck braces, and ALWAYS w/ helmets! Of course, Kurt would have told his folks he wore a helmet, but the video is closer to the truth and, yes it may still have not prevented his death had he been wearing a lid, but probably would have...so, most riders who still don't ride w/ a lid or brace probably don't because it is not 'cool' and / or they cannot afford the 'stupid' and rip off cost of good helmets and brace [ Liatt or Omega ] but i am certain, if any one of us riders young or older look at the stuff [ some of it crap ] we spend our rupees on, [ cigarettes, movies, cell phones, and a host of other meaningless gadgets ] we could easily save enough $$$ to get the protective swag needed to prevent tragedies like this...my heart goes out to the Parents and Lukes Friends - for those that loved Luke and the sport, do the right thing now, wear helmets and a neck brace if possible...better yet, start something to advocate wearing protective gear suited to your discipline; hold BMX rallies, Swap Meets, anything that will raise awareness to prevent another UNECESSARY injury or death. HIGH FIVES FOR THE 'ANNUAL LUKE ESGATE BMX MEMORIAL RALLY'...just an idea my younger brothers - the kind words on this page are not enough, it's up to all of you now.
  • 2 0
 And I thought a 56 year old building trails and dirt jumping was wicked!
  • 4 1
 Luke was wearing a helmet at the time of the incedent!!!!!!!!!
  • 5 5
 That COULD be a lie from people. He could've had it with him, and placed it down. People are going by what is shown on that video. There is a solid five minutes where he only has his hat... Not fueling an argument just trying to enlighten people on where other guys are coming from.
  • 7 0
 It's really annoying to go through this article and see every other comment saying something along the line of: "it's important to wear your helmet" or "that's why you wear a helmet" Do people forget that what we do is considered an "Extreme Sport" from DH to BMX to just simply All Mountain riding much of the general public thinks it's crazy and stupid what we do. But we continue riding because it's who we are! It's what we love and we spasm when we are away from our bikes for too long. My point being when we ride for so long we get comfortable and begin expanding our comfort zone in order to learn new tricks, and sometimes bad things happen. And when these bad things happen we might crash and can sprain a thumb or even die, so do we go out and ride wearing every peice of protective equipment available? Because I garaneee hardly anyone rides wearing a cup. Craig Lange died earlier this year when his handle bars came through his goggles and full face helmet, how do you protect against that? This is a risk we take when riding and that's it, we shouldn't be arguing about whether or not he wore a helmet or if it even helped. We should just reflect on the fact that at any given moment, any small drop, any tree dodging trail, or any ski lift up it could be us.
  • 2 0
 Bro, I thank you so much, I couldn't of said it better my self!
  • 2 0
 wait a minute, skierdud89, your right when you say its a comfort thing cause if you notice every clip hes wearin a helmet it is a place I know he has never ridin there before and he is a little cautious, and the clips where he isn't wearin a helmet he rides at those places every day! so it is comfort thing. But I mean come on guys he was one of my really close friends that I filmed almost every day up to the day he passed, so I know he had the helmet on, Bmxerch.
  • 1 0
 and to help dropinprod it was confirmed/proven my medical professionals that the neck injury was what killed him so even if he wasnt wearing a helmet during the crash he still would have died due to neck injury not brain damage
  • 18 0
 we all lost one of ours whether we knew him or not... R.I.P.
  • 8 0
 Ride in peace luke!!! I always hate hearing about things like this. semi-related note, the local news reported the death and then showed video of a bunch of motorcrossers tooling around, made both sports off as ignorant teenage hobbies. It was pretty insulting from either side, you wouldnt dare show video of a basketball game for a football players death. These are real sports that people love to do and have passions for, people who ride bikes arent all hooligans. RIP Luke.
  • 2 0
 considering how long mountain biking and BMXing have been around the mainstream media havent quite worked it out yet, the BBC over here have a stock image of a man wearing a mushroom going over the handlebars which they put on all mountain bike related articles..
  • 9 1
 I swear if I hear another person B.S. about the helmet missing in his vid I'm going to lose my belief in mankind's ability to feel sympathy for those less fortunate...It was a neck injury and a punctured lung that took his life! Show some sensitivity people...
Anyone who would like they have never pedal'd a bike without a helmet in their lives must look in the mirror and ask themselves, "Do I really think I'm that innocent, that angelic?" everyone has done it don't throw that against a fallen rider's name. Show some respect.

I knew this kid personally, he was awesome, he never tried to one up you, never said anything bad about anyone else's riding, never started anything with anyone...

My heart goes out to him and all of your's should as well. I'll be at his funeral tomorrow, if you so wish, pay your respects regardless of where you are, we will be doing so tomorrow evening...RIP Luke, we all wish you were still shredding with us man...
  • 1 1
 Thanks Craig! Well said.
  • 1 1
 Thanks alot Craig, like duck says, well said man!
  • 10 2
 In freestyle biking helmets are an essential part of the sport. A mountain bike rider on the mountain with no helmet would certainly look strange to other mountain bikers. In a skate park a BMX rider wearing a helmet looks strange to other BMX riders and that is the reason this stuff happens. Most BMX magazines, most of the time, will not print a cover shot if the rider is wearing a helmet. Where does it all come from? It's people in BMX media displaying a poor example to these kids. Who are they? It's BMX mags, BMX films, and web sites that are the the people to be looking at here. Pick up a Ride BMX mag next time your in the store..... helmets are a no no in those mags.
  • 7 0
 It is sad, but enlightening to hear...someone died doing what they love. They were not in a shooting. they were not mugged, kid napped or blown up in combat. Luke was not a victum of any kind. This young man was riding his bike. This is the ultimate goal we all should strive for, dieing doing the one thing that makes you happy. Ride in Peace. Rest Peacefully.
  • 1 0
 nuff said
  • 3 0
 That's why the older I'm getting, the more I'm trying to be on my bike. I can only hope to be at full-throttle when my number is called - have to put the odds in my favor. As all of us should. Shred In Peace!
  • 2 3
 why do people bother putting the helmet comments and trying to give some sentimental speech? a life was lost, this is neither the time nor the place for that shit. if you have no condolences then f*ck off and dont bother posting.
  • 6 0
 R.I.P. Kurt and condolences to his loved ones. Despite what the above asterisk says about him wearing a helmet, an 8:23 video tribute shows about 8:00 minutes of him and his friends almost never wearing one, especially at the Park. Wear your helmet folks . . . make it a habit. Our boys are often teased by peers about wearing their helmets when they ride and it's really unfortunate and frustrating.
  • 1 0
 His name was Luke Esgate and thanks for the comments
  • 6 0
 Its hard to read this kinda stuff for me, my own brother was killed in a car crash last year, he was only 11. I hope luke's family can stay strong through this hard time and get all the support they need. Jake
  • 5 0
 what is up with all the b*****t about wearing helmets! yes you should wear a helmet at all times, but as his mates have said a number of times 'he was wearing a helmet at the time'. riding mtb, bmx, or anykind of kind of extreme sport is dangerous and yes tragic accidents happen. at the end of the day if your wore all the body armour you could fit on your body and you landed wrong, you can still break yourself. body armour only prevents minor injuries its not goin to stop major injuries like broken necks and backs. I dont think bmxer's or dirt jumpers are goin to start wearing full face helmets, neck braces and full body armour anytime soon. there body movement would be so restricted there would probably crash even more. he looked like an awesome rider and a cool guy, show some respect, this isnt the time to start bitching about what protective gear you should be wearing. RIP MAN!
  • 1 0
 It is really simple why people are going on about helmets. DON'T POST PICS AND VIDEOS SHOWING THE RIDER WITHOUT THEM! This poor judgement has taken away from the respect the young man should be receiving. Unfortunately, the requests to propmote a more sensible image of the rider were rejected and turned into a flame war. BTW, freestyle MXers are able to move just fine with much heavier protective gear.
  • 5 1
 In my opinion, we cant blame him for not using a helment. This kid was riding at a really high level, I am really sure that he was probablly riding every day. When you ride the same park or same dirts every day (or many times a week) for weeks or even years, you get so confident with yourself and so confident in the spot, that you just stop using a helment, because you know what you are doing in the park. The jumps and the stuff he was doing might seem really dangerous for you, but maybe not dangerous for him, because of his level and because he was doing this almost every day, so its like a rutine. I would imagine that he would have used a helment when he rode in a new spot or something. I am sure that most of you, also rode withought a helment sometime. Rest in peace Luke.
  • 5 0
 rip dude im sorry to all ure family and all ure friends for the loss

atleast u died doin what u love most and i meen this in the nicest of ways Smile sleep tight up there Smile
  • 3 0
 I strongly feel people are in charge of their own life, and Luke lived how he wanted to. That's the meaning of freedom! In no way should people shame on him for not wearing gear when he didn't want to, that's his decision and you can make your own for yourself. The video was beautiful and really expressed what life, and more over what Luke's life is truly about to me. Thank you for making that for us to see and learn about him. He lived free, and did what he loved even at the expense of riding miles to the park of his choice. His life may have been short-lived, but he lived a greater life than many will understand. In this world, it is not about how long you live, but about the road you travel, and the things you do and the people you inspire. From what I have read from his friends here, he did an outstanding job of that. So, thanks Luke =)

I would be happy to buy a sticker or something to contribute to the family and put it on my helmet for Luke. I would also love to see someone throw a party in his memory, because I feel that is the best way to honor someone's life! I hope all of you who knew him celebrate the good times you had, and hold onto those memories when you think of him! He seems like such a rad dude, and has such a good soul. I know he's smiling down upon all of his friends and family, RIP Luke!
  • 2 0
 I will post a bunch of video of his friends celebrating in his memory. after his memorial this weekend.
  • 1 0
 Thanks man! It means a lot to me and I did not even know him. I really respect what you are doing in his memory. I know you've made him proud!
  • 7 0
 Its hard to read this kind of stuff... RIP
  • 5 1
 He wore a helmet at the time of the crash. Sadly it was a neck injury. Freak accidents like this happen but it is never a good thing to lose someone so young. He was taken from this world way too soon. Shred in Peace.
  • 1 0
 this is the second freak accident that I know of happening this season, the first happening to a fellow rider on my circuit. It sucks when we take the neccesary precautions and still can't prevent things like this from happening.
  • 5 0
 Ya i agree with ramemtbers show respect guys. Best of luck to his family. This is the type of thing that makes me not want to ride sometimes and think of the possibities.
  • 3 0
 I'm not a bmx rider, I appreciate what you guys do though, and we all like different things... this was clearly Luke's passion and its sad to know that such an awful thing happened. I really hope everyone who knew him is okay, and Luke buddy I hope your at peace now.

Whats also really amazing to see is the amount of pinkbikers who have responded to this, i'm really glad to be part of a sport where people actually care about each other. tup Keep it steezy guys
  • 2 0
 Rip man, my condolences to family and friends, as a bmxer I feel like I have lost one of my own .. Dude be rippin for the big man upstairs now. And to those of you being less than apologetic or aren't even a bit upset, show some respect. We lost one of our own today .
  • 3 0
 Sad, when we play and push the limits there is sometimes a price to pay. This is to large a price for anyone to pay. My thoughts to his family and close friends as he will be missed everyday by them.
  • 2 0
 This is just a brutal reminder that any time we're on two wheels we're risking life and limb. It's cool to see everybody here paying respects to a fellow rider.

p.s. even though this was a neck injury, people need to start/keep wearing helmets all the time!
  • 3 0
 I dont ride BMX but RIP, i think it shouldnt happen to anyone, know matter who they are or what there sport. (and please some people above need to show some respect.)
  • 1 0
 Beautiful Camera work! A fitting tribute to a talented rider. It seems that the good ones are gone too soon, but while they were here, they gave us all they had. To Luke and all the others "gone too soon"..... Rest In Peace.
  • 1 0
 sad to know we lost another great rider. but all us riders know the level of danger involvd in this sport we just choose to ignore it to have a great time doing the sport we love to do... RIP hope your shreddin hard up there.. and i will hopefully be shreddin with u when i get up there RIP BRO..
  • 1 0
 makes you think every time you go out riding in one way or another, whether it be the hardest stunt or the easiest you can still get seriously injured or killed helmet or not. He died doing what he loved, not many people do but now when his family tells his story they can say he did.My condolences to Luke and his family. Rest In Peace
  • 2 0
 Such a waste. Poor poor kid. My brother broke his spine this year and it f*cked my head... I can only image how his family are feeling... Live by the sword die by the sword.... RIP.
  • 3 2
 I know this kids injury wasn't sustained from not wearing a helmet.

That said, so many riders aren't wearing helmets for the wrong reasons. Wether your riding street or park, dirt or concrete, pro or noob, if you don't protect your noggin and you land bad enough, your gonna mess yourself up. I'd rather wear a lid than worry about looking cool or not. Years ago I remember massive campaigns to get kids to wear helmets because then it wasn't cool to wear one. Then everyone started wearing cool helmets. Now its getting so its not cool to wear helmets again? And now its cool to not wear gloves and body armour?? Are you kidding me? I see so many riders at bike parks who can't ride for shit but they look cool with no pads or gloves. Plenty of younguns are looking up to these cool kids and copying their style. I'm afraid there's gonna be a lot more stories like this in the future unless emphasis is put back on protection. Come on PinkBike what about it?????
RIP kid.
  • 1 0
 Personally I don't feel this is true. Just a couple weeks ago when I had all my safety gear in the mail, a group of young kids ragged on me for NOT wearing safety gear. The awareness is out there, almost every rider I talked to asked me where my helmet was, and I had to shamefully tell them it was in the mail. I am so happy to have my safety gear now, I love wearing it- and even if I just go down the street I still put it on now. Every time I see my scars, it reminds me how lucky I am. But I got those scars from the addiction of riding, and the love of the free life when the world was not kind enough to allow me to buy the right safety equipment. It may be different in other areas, but I really feel the change where I live at least. I saw an article about helmets being given out in New York by the police department, and they were pretty sweet looking! There are so many neat options and people supporting it now it's great!
  • 1 0
 not so important but...i used 'Kurts' name in my above comment, but meant Luke...apologies for any confusion...it happens when your an old fart :-) as far as Kurt is concerned, he needs to 'man up'for his incredibly bad timing insensitive comments - reminders to wear a helmet etc. [ based on the [in] accurate info ? ] are ok, but self-righteous drivel here has no place...keep it real Kurt and wipe the egg off your peach fuzz and apologize....
  • 2 1
 helmet or not, any little accident can result in something none of us want. crazy to think that probably most of us never even think of things like this when we get on our bikes and ride. didn't know the kid but from this video i can say i could find myself befriending someone with his personality and passion of riding. Ride in Peace man, hope to meet you on the other side.
  • 3 1
 Only the best die young, so Rest in peace bro! All those idiots wich are telling stuff like wearing a Helmet would help should just Shuttle up! You dont wanna tell me You have never Bern riding without one!
  • 3 2
 we dont need another figth in this world, we dont need to fight beetwen bikers, we just need to learn the leason that this brother teach us¡¡ why dont die better a terrorist, narco or gangster, but not a biker. we need more free people like him and all of you, bike is life¡¡¡
sorry my english but i realy want to say somthing in memory of Luke Esgate.
theres a very dificult situation in my country at this time and make me feel angry, but the riders in mexico are allways free. thanks
  • 2 0
 I understand what your saying, even if others don't. There are so many people doing bad things out there, and more people should be like Luke and live free. Riders should bond and come together, no matter where you are from or what language you speak, or even what kind of bike you ride- all riders are united in the feeling of freedom. =) Thanks man.
  • 4 0
 R.I.P !!! HE DIED IN THE WILLING TO LIVE !!!!
  • 2 0
 at least he went doing something he loved. i'm now gonna wear my helmet 24/7! ride in peace bro. we'll all meet you there someday
  • 2 0
 I'm sorry to read that, i'm so sad :O this things are the kind of things that we don't want to even imagine, very sad... Luke Esgate, Rest in Peace.
  • 3 0
 Hard to deal with something like this..
Let`s just keep riding for him and others like him..
Rest in peace bro.
  • 2 1
 RIP man. you did what you loved! to all the fu####s out there who are talkin sh## about this................would you be doin that if someone you cared for died doin what they loved? i think not so stfu!
  • 2 0
 R.I.P mann Every one it wasnt his falt it says he was wearing a helmet at the crash plus i was a neck injury probly a freak acciden. R.I.P
  • 1 0
 very sad and thoughts are with the family, hopefully his last memory will of been of doing the thing he loved.

Seems to be alot of head / neck injuries at the moment Lavin, Atherton to name just a few.
  • 1 0
 I get choked up every time I hear one of these stories takes me back to June 4th.....RIP Craig were gonna miss you ......RIP Luke...... Everybody weve gotta take care of ourselves
  • 2 0
 Rip...men, this things makes me think!! "Sometimes the price we pay it´s high...." So every time you go ride, use a helmet....
  • 2 0
 He was such a smooth, sick rider. Sucks it takes something like this for him to become known, but maybe more lives will be saved by his influence. R.I.P.
  • 1 0
 RIP. even tho mountainbikers dislike bmxers still hate to see a fellow rider pass on in such a shitty way.. But to be honest Id rather die doing something I loved then any other way.. RIP man
  • 3 0
 Me and a lot others like me do no dislike bmxers or other tipes of riding...
We all do this cause we love it right?
Two weels are allways two weels, so just ride guys..! Big Grin
  • 3 0
 RIP

6:32 in the video seems to be a biker cop, should he not be enforcing helmets... just saying
  • 2 0
 rip man, i met him in public school back in grade 4 before i moved more north. So sad to hear about this.. keep shreddn' up in the heavens man. RIP.
  • 1 0
 RIP man. We all face it, but you went face to face with what we all fear, and you could fly. The respect doesn't end with your riding but how you went down balls to the wall, a good rider down.
  • 1 0
 Though it is tough when the bike world loses a brother; We must remember the good times, and carry a piece of Lukes steeziness as we roll through life. You will be missed... and remembered! R.I.P.
  • 2 0
 thanks for the condolences bro! Damn man he talked about goin up to bend and shreddin up there this summer......
  • 2 1
 it really hurst to see a fellow rider die in such a horrible way, even though i dont BMX i feel terrible about this, when someone in the biking community is killed, it sucks, keep shredding man R.I.P.
  • 1 1
 Great loss to the sport. What a telented rider with a passion for the sport this came over in the video I felt gutted wheh I saw the headlines. My thoughts go out to his family and close friends. I am sure he is haveing a ball on the other side. Peace!
  • 1 0
 R.I.P this makes me feel like that could happen to anyone on the most dialed trick. really sad to hear. hope he went to better place
  • 2 0
 RIP man. All 2 wheel shredders deserve peace and respect. Condolences to all family and friends.
  • 1 1
 alot of guys around the world they feel more "cool" on the track without safety gear!!! SHould that be a "must" regulation on the track wearing safety gear otherwise they're not allowed to go on!!!
  • 2 0
 R.I.P buddy God has a perfect bit of heaven just for you. No one should be arguing, we have lost one of our own.
  • 1 3
 Kurtsucks my balls
  • 2 0
 sad story, good video, but a helmet is a good investment i know it saved me a couple of times before, RIP luke
  • 2 2
 rip dude. its sad to see an oregonian shredder leave but i would like to think your in a better place. my condolences to the family for their loss. im sure luke was an inspiring person.
  • 2 0
 thats sucks. RIP dude, too young to die. dan atherton nearly died from a neck injury recently
  • 2 0
 Tragic news. Such a young life and someone so talented. Condolences to his family.
  • 3 0
 Sad face...Be careful out there but don't be afraid to die.
  • 1 1
 sorry to hear but i gots to agree with the first post, wear your helmet out there. this is kinda thing is totally avoidable. now see what happens to this town's skate park cause of this...
  • 1 0
 it was a neck injury if u read the caption thing.
  • 1 0
 Didn't happen at a skatepark either....0-2, one more strike and you're out Smile
  • 2 0
 R.I.P. thats the best way to go though. riding your bike. ill be praying buddy.
  • 2 1
 www.facebook.com/pages/RIP-Luke-Esgate/136019203116439?v=wall i know i already posted, but lets get the word out for this guy and his family on facebook ..
  • 1 0
 RIP man thats gota be one my fav vids on pb right now wicked ridn good tribute(y)

its got a sweet beat to it to dnt wana sound like a dick but wats the song name
  • 1 0
 Father king by Emancipator
  • 1 0
 Rest easy mate and condolences to your family, I hope they can rejoice your life as well spent. And to all others, "DON'T BE A KIRK"!
  • 2 1
 RIP, this guy was way too young to pass, I'm his age and can tell you death is the last thing on my mind when I go for a bike ride.
  • 2 0
 Much love! Luke was kind and a great person, and one hell of a rider. Much love always Luke.
  • 1 0
 R.I.P man. have a awesome time in the afterlife. least you'll riding the best dj's that are outa this world. but this is really sad. R.I.P
  • 2 0
 i don´t know him but RIP ..
  • 1 0
 R.I.P. He really looked like he loved to ride with his buddies. As we all do. He had a smooth, laid back style!
  • 2 0
 R.I.P f*ck Frown no no no no Frown
  • 2 0
 The bright side is that he was doing something he loved. R.I.P
  • 1 0
 RIP buddy, at leased you died doing what you loved........ you will be missed.... Frown
  • 1 0
 R.I.P buddy, nobody deserves to go maybe youll be on God's Flow BMX Team up there in the sky
  • 2 0
 RIP dude, thoughts are with his friends and family. Ride on.
  • 2 0
 RIP dude, Your riding in the heavens now.
  • 2 0
 RIP bro. Cant imagine what the family is going through.
  • 4 0
 RIP, My mother had a bad motorcycle accident 3 years ago at 47 years old, She is lucky to have survived but says even if she had died it would have been doing something she loved. You can’t live life to its fullest if you are afraid to die!
  • 1 0
 wow this sucks to loose such a young boy. R.I.P bro and i give prears out to all his friends and family
  • 1 0
 brings tears to my eyes, LITERELY, my deepest condolences to his friends and family, Ride In Peace man
  • 2 0
 and thats y i wear a helmate rip bro
  • 2 0
 RIP bud. Live life like theres no towmorw.
  • 2 0
 R.I.P mate, and condolences to his family and friends..
  • 1 0
 I can't believe and really don't want to hear this news... Frown ... RIP buddy!!
  • 2 0
 R.I.P mate, atleast heaven is a half pipe Smile
  • 1 0
 My condolences and prayers go out to Luke's family and friends, he was far, far too young to be taken away.
  • 1 0
 Pave nous le chemin, on se retrouvera mec! RIP Luke, Build us some nice trails up there so we can shred together!
  • 2 0
 bmx for life rip died doing wat loved thats all that matters
  • 1 0
 Horrible reading things like this and hearing about them. I wish all his family and friends the best. R.I.P Luke.
  • 1 0
 RIP, at least he passed doing what he loves. good vibes to family and friends, sorry for your loss.
  • 1 0
 his bikes should be auctioned off for charity in memory of this ripppppin rider. rip bro.
  • 2 0
 Wow. My condolences to his family.
  • 1 0
 R.I.P a fellow ripper of the 2 wheels and pedals. respect to you, and condolences to your family and friends!
  • 2 0
 Rest In Peace man. Enjoy the bike parks in the sky
  • 2 0
 RIP Frown Half pipe in heaven dude
  • 1 0
 Shred in peace dude. hope there is a good bike park where ever you are now.
  • 1 0
 R.I.P mann.. i bet your shredding some seshs above man , your soul will live forever man ! R.I.P
  • 1 0
 RIP
  • 1 0
 I heard this on ben huckes facebook, he was riding with him the day before,
  • 2 0
 RIP the good die young Frown
  • 2 0
 ride in peace bro ride in peace
  • 1 0
 Very sad RIP and I am "happy" to hear that he wore a helmet. No more fuel needed for that debate.
  • 1 0
 my condolences towards family and friends of Luke, RIP Im so sorry to hear about another teen
  • 1 0
 RIP dude, I hope ur rolling some smooth silky lips somewhere up above, We all ride on and ride to honor Luke.
  • 1 0
 RIP! he died doing what he loved. i bet hes ripping it up there, peace my friend.
  • 1 0
 Hey Luke--Love you buddy--Thanks for sharing with us. Thought and prayers are with your family. God bless. david
  • 1 0
 REST IN PEACE at least you died doing what you love.. my condolences.... too young.
  • 1 0
 what did kurt socks say i missed it. R.I.P sucks to hear about sh*t like this
  • 4 0
 He said something stupid and insensitive, that's all you need to know.
  • 2 0
 RIP bro. i hope u can continue what u loved to do in heaven.
  • 1 0
 He died doing what he loved. Too bad he was so young. Rest in peace Luke Esgate.
  • 3 1
 R.I.P ..... helmet and neck brace sales will go up
  • 2 2
 Not many people are gonna buy a neck brace for this kind of riding, because you need a full face helmet for it to work.
  • 2 0
 well its not just bmx riders that just look at this obviously all kinds of riding uses protective gear makes me want to get a neck brace for dh
  • 2 1
 Yea i totally agree that their great, but its no help for other riding because barely anyone uses a full face for anything but DH.
  • 1 1
 this is extremely sobering news, it is one of the many recent incidents starting with Dan Atherton that is making me think...Leatt?

R.I.P. man even though I never met you.
  • 1 1
 Such a big loss to the biking community, I'm sure he inspired many! Rest in peace my friend, my condolences go out to family and buddies, stay strong
  • 1 0
 It really sucks to hear that a bmx community member died I wish to all is familly and friends my respect !
  • 1 0
 i cant even imagine how his friends fejt when he died in front of them.. rest in peace mate
  • 1 0
 really hard to handle!!
  • 1 0
 such a waste of talent, i just hope he's still riding up there. RIP brother.
  • 2 0
 R.I.P luke hope your shreding in a better place
  • 1 0
 Best wishes for safe passage bro. We offer all your family our deepest sorrow.
  • 1 0
 R.I.P

Damn, you can really say that BMX was his life Frown
  • 1 0
 R.I.P. Much loved by all x
  • 1 0
 i hope your still shredding some sweet dirt jumps above us, rip Frown !
  • 1 0
 damn.... shit man rest in piece... I'll drink one in memory for you
  • 1 0
 R.I.P. buddy, my condolences are out to the family and friends.
  • 1 0
 RIP hope he ride in heaven and make this vid VOD and VOM
  • 1 0
 R.I.P allways sucks when a rider dies
  • 1 0
 R.I.P Frown Doing what he loved!
  • 1 0
 R.I.P bro sucks you had to go so young
  • 1 0
 Wow, it seems like he was a great kid. R. I. P bud.
  • 1 1
 Tear up the CLOUDS in HEAVEN and the FIRES in HELL...ride on brother...R.I.P.!!!
  • 1 1
 Make the face book a group instead of a page so i don't have to"like" it.Otherwise
Ride
In
Peace
  • 1 1
 Its so sad to see someone so full of life get taken away from us, RIP dude.
  • 1 1
 condolences to his family and friends, rest in peace buddy, sad to see such a young guy's life ended so abruptly.
  • 1 1
 I hope all Luke's family and friends stay strong, watching the video he seemed like a laid back dude and a awesome rider.
  • 1 0
 its just terrible... rest in peace Luke.
  • 1 0
 VERY SAD TO HEAR R.I.P LUKE
  • 1 0
 R.I.P the guy seemed like a shredder.
  • 2 1
 i dont even know u but rest in peace! keep on shreddin up there!
  • 1 0
 r.i.p man keep pinning it up there
  • 2 0
 ride in peace man.
  • 1 0
 R.I.P bud, (AND TO EVERYONE WHO DOESN'T READ HE WAS WEARING A HELMET!)
  • 1 0
 R.I.P keep on riding in heaven
  • 1 0
 R.I.P. bro my condolences to all the family and friends
  • 1 0
 My sympathies to all of you
  • 2 0
 rip fellow shredder Frown
  • 1 0
 RiP thanks for progressing the sport.
  • 1 0
 RIP mate, thinking of you're family and friends.
  • 1 0
 I hate hearing that some one has died in any cycling sport! RIP man
  • 1 0
 nobody should die biking.
  • 2 1
 so sad, never want to see that, wear you helmet kids.
  • 1 0
 god :o that's terrible!! My deepest condolences to the family and friends
  • 1 0
 RIP man, least he went doing what he loved.
  • 1 0
 RIP man. good luck to his family and friends.
  • 1 0
 Rest in peace, shame to loose a rider
  • 1 0
 R.I.P. It's sad to hear a young life's light has gone out so early.
  • 1 0
 awww, soo bad to hear it when a biker dies while biking
  • 1 0
 Brings a tear to my eye RIP mann!
  • 1 0
 rip but it was the best bmx vid i have seen so far
  • 2 0
 RIP Frown x
  • 1 0
 That dude was flawless...rip
  • 1 0
 Rock the parks in heaven bud cuz that's where you're gonna be. RIP
  • 2 0
 R.I.P bro x
  • 1 0
 Defiantly sad to see someone this young fall and not get up. RIP.
  • 1 0
 so sad r.i.p a good rider and looks like a good guy
  • 1 0
 RIP I hope he shreds in heaven
  • 1 0
 RIP mate, its so sad when it happens so young
  • 1 0
 That's so sad... Rest In Peace Luke! Next biker angel in heaven. Frown
  • 1 0
 Holy shit, he lived really close to me. RIP
  • 1 0
 RIP bud. Thats so bad..man..looks like a shredder too.
  • 1 0
 Ahhh man, its just so infortunate to see someone pass away. RIP
  • 1 0
 are we talking elmira ontario here? Brutal story!
  • 1 0
 Elmira,Oregon, US
  • 1 0
 RIP dude, shred hard up there
  • 6 9
 This is a very sad incident. Kids, no disrespect is meant, but there clearly was not a respect for wearing a helmet, in spite of the reports of him wearing one at this incident. The images posted and video while intended as a tribute are a negative. The tribute images and video should be replaced with ones promoting proper safety equipment. You would receive way fewer reminders to wear a helmet if the lead image showed a rider wearing a helmet.It is bad taste to promote any images of risky sports that don't show the participant using a helmet. I am a father, and have never allowed my family anywhere near a dangerous activity without a helmet, joint protection, and proper foot protection. This can be a learning experience for everyone, without it being made into a perceived slander against this unfortunate young man. Everything we do sends messages about the culture we exist in. I have been supervising my son at the skate park many times, and have seen him being ridiculed for using protective gear. We sometimes need these unfortunate reminders to draw attention to the need for a shift in culture.
  • 4 3
 This video was made to remember Luke! I used every piece of footage I had of him for this, I wish he was wearin a helmet more as well. He never had an issue with the way he looked while riding with a helmet or not. And It sucks his Mom, Dad and rest of the family has to deal with this loss, and they come on here to read the kind words said about there son, not shit like "We sometimes need these unfortunate reminders to draw attention to the need for a shift in culture." Come on bro!! You are ridiculous! We are makin tribute helmets in his honor for all the riders out here. It did bring alot of awareness, but we could go with out your bullsh*t, "mister I live by the books" Willie1
  • 4 8
flag Willie1 (Oct 21, 2010 at 21:35) (Below Threshold)
 Come on bro!! You are ridiculous! We are makin tribute helmets in his honor for all the riders out here. It did bring alot of awareness, but we could go with out your bullsh*t, "mister I live by the books" Willie1

I understanhd you are upset, but there are realities. I would never post a video or pictures like that in this circumstance. If this is the only footage you have, you shouldn't post the video. Wether you like it or not, you are promoting a negative image of bikers unintentionally. BTW, I have several destroyed helmets that would have easily been tragedies, for both myself and for my son, including when a quad rolled over my son with the footpeg tearing an 8x3" chunk out of the helmet. I am glad I live "by the books." Criticising this "rigidity" in my thinking is the rediculous part. You obviously missed the part: "...without it being made into a perceived slander against this unfortunate young man."

If this was my child, and this situation reminded others to wear safety gear, preventing injuries and death, I would appreciate it.
  • 3 2
 willie1...i agree w/ dropinprod, you probably could have chosen your words better to make an otherwise good point, but in a way you still have the lead here - with all the comments, yours is probably the most important: maybe time to change the vid...dropinprod, i am certain you did your best w/ this video [just as willie1 meant well]...i think it was good we all saw this vid of Luke and other riders w/ no helmet -it provoked a litany of awareness in the comments, but now [ maybe? ] it's time to change this vid to show how it needs to be...how about something w/ your tribute helmets ? i KNOW if willie1 is a father, he did not intend for Luke to be a'needed unfortunate reminder' in the last line of his comment...i have a feeling he would agree if he has re-read it...at least i hope so.
  • 1 0
 Damn...2 locals committed suicide and now a fellow biker is dead...so sad.
  • 1 0
 rip bra just shows how dangerous this sport is
  • 1 0
 he was killin it, RIDE IN PEACE
  • 1 0
 thats terrible. RIP homie
  • 1 0
 hey at least we know hes doing what he loves in the afterlife... RIP bro
  • 2 1
 terrible loss - nuff said! RIP!
  • 1 1
 Damn dude, R.I.P. This sucks. Good to see the pinkbike community leaving a message
  • 1 0
 R.I.P - ride in peace :-(
  • 2 2
 Thoughts to his friends and family. Sounds like he made the most of a short life.
  • 1 0
 ride in peace bro. much respect, an my condolences to his family an homies
  • 1 0
 Rip Brotha, This shit just sucks when it happens
  • 1 0
 Sad,Sad news - RIP matey.
  • 1 0
 RIP Man sorry to all ur family and friends
  • 1 0
 ride in peace man, you will be missed
  • 2 0
 Upmost sympathy.
  • 1 0
 So sorry to hear this best condolences to the family and friends
  • 1 0
 R.I.P mann
  • 1 0
 Rip bro
  • 1 0
 your memory rides on
  • 1 0
 R.I.P
  • 1 0
 R.I.P such a sad story!
  • 1 0
 rest in peace man !!!
  • 1 0
 sorry to hear... R.I.P.
  • 1 0
 R.I.P
  • 1 0
 R.I.P.
  • 1 0
 RIP dude
  • 1 0
 R.I.P
  • 1 0
 Shred on forever buddy
  • 1 0
 R.I.P Buddy x
  • 1 0
 RIP
  • 1 0
 fuck thats sucks
  • 1 0
 RIP bro :/
  • 1 1
 R.I.P... thats too bad...
  • 1 0
 Rest in peace bro.
  • 1 0
 RIP
  • 1 0
 r.i.p. man, so sad :/
  • 1 0
 R.I.P
  • 2 2
 RIP, my thoughts are with him and his family.
  • 1 0
 rest in peace, man
  • 1 0
 rest in peace man
  • 1 0
 RIP :/
  • 1 0
 RIP
  • 1 0
 RIP
  • 1 0
 r.i.p man x
  • 1 0
 this sucks, RIP 3
  • 1 0
 tragedy R.I.P Frown
  • 1 0
 RIP
  • 1 0
 rippp man.
  • 1 0
 RIP buddy Cry
  • 1 0
 Rip in peace buddy! Frown
  • 1 0
 Frown ride in peace!
  • 1 0
 RIP champ
  • 1 0
 R.I.P man
  • 1 0
 R.I.P ...
  • 1 0
 rest in peace mate.
  • 1 0
 Double post sorry
  • 1 0
 rip
  • 1 0
 R.I.P dude
  • 1 0
 Very, very sad. RIP
  • 1 0
 RIP dude!!!!!
  • 1 0
 sad shit Frown
  • 1 0
 RIP Luke.....
  • 1 0
 R.I.P man
  • 1 0
 rip men
  • 1 0
 RIP buddy!
  • 2 1
 RIP!(Ride In Peace)
  • 1 0
 Rest In Peace!
  • 1 0
 RIP Buddy
  • 2 2
 oops i guess he was wearing a helmet? that sucks
RIP
  • 1 0
 RIP cracker
  • 1 0
 That's awful, RIP.
  • 1 0
 Shit...
  • 1 0
 RIP
  • 1 0
 sorry to hear.R.I.P
  • 1 0
 thank god for bikes
  • 2 2
 Rest in peace dude!watch over us from above there!!!
  • 1 1
 R.I.P brother condolences to the family :'(
  • 1 0
 R.I.P man
  • 1 0
 R.I.P dude
  • 1 0
 r.i.p man,
  • 1 0
 smooth as velvet rip man
  • 1 0
 R.I.P man...
  • 1 1
 RIP, sick rider, makes me wanna get out and ride! he had no front teeth :L
  • 1 0
 i feel bad rest in peace
  • 1 0
 RIP dude Frown
  • 1 0
 rest in peace man
  • 1 0
 Rest In Peace
  • 1 0
 RIP
  • 1 0
 RIP!
  • 1 0
 poor man
  • 1 0
 R.I.P
  • 1 0
 R.I.P RIDER !!!!
  • 1 0
 R.I.P in Peace my Man
  • 1 0
 RIP ;(
  • 1 0
 Beautifull tribute. RIP
  • 1 1
 r.i.p. god bless
  • 1 1
 R.I.P. Salute
  • 1 1
 R.I.P.
  • 1 1
 R.I.P
  • 1 1
 RIP
  • 1 1
 omg thats sad...
  • 1 0
 Mickydesadist2 got it right, we all take part in something that could kill us round every corner mtb,bmx,skate, But We have lost one of the "extreme" people we all strive to be!!
R.I.P.
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