Churchill HS Mascot Fatally Hit By Car While Riding His Bike: PD

BETHESDA, MD — A 17-year-old cyclist who was struck by an SUV on Wednesday has died, according to Montgomery County Police.

Authorities have identified the teen as Jacob Cassell, of Bethesda. A rising junior at Winston Churchill High, Cassell was the school's "bulldog" mascot. He died from his injuries at a local hospital on Thursday.

The incident happened shortly before 5 p.m., at the intersection of Old Georgetown Road and Beech Avenue. Police say Cassell was traveling southbound on the sidewalk toward Beech Avenue when he fell into the roadway.

He was then struck by a 2018 Volkswagen Atlas traveling southbound on Old Georgetown Road.

The driver of the Volkswagen Atlas has been identified as 39-year-old Matthew Williams, of Bethesda. He was not injured in the crash and remained at the scene, police said.

Cassell suffered from life-threatening injuries and was rushed to a hospital, where he died less than 24 hours later.

On Thursday morning, Winston Churchill High School Principal Brandice Heckert announced in a tweet addressed to students and families that Cassell had died.

"It is with a heavy heart that I share news of the passing of our very own Bulldog, Jake Cassell. Jake, a rising junior, had a kind heart and a contagious smile. He will be greatly missed," Heckert wrote.

It is with a heavy heart that I share news of the passing of our very own Bulldog, Jake Cassell. Jake, a rising junior, had a kind heart and a contagious smile. He will be greatly missed. Keep the Cassell family in your thoughts. @wchsbulldog @DawgsSports @PeterOMoran pic.twitter.com/WmuuOH0x01
— Brandice Heckert (@ChurchillPrin) August 1, 2019

Police are still trying to piece together what exactly had happened. Anyone who witnessed this fatal collision is asked to call investigators at 240-773- 6620. Callers can remain anonymous.