'Ghost Bike' Memorial Planned for Doctor Killed in Accident

Above: A ”ghost bike” memorial, like the one pictured above, is planned to honor the memory of Dr. Anita Kurmann.

Friends, colleagues and fellow bicyclists in Boston are planning a “ghost bike” memorial for the endocrine surgeon killed after she was hit by a tractor trailer Friday morning, the Boston Globe reports.

38-year-old Anita Kurmann was hit by the back end of a tractor trailer at the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue and Beacon Street about 8 a.m. Friday. According to police, the truck driver never stopped after running the woman down and may not have been aware of what happened. No charges have been filed.

The rear wheel of the truck struck the woman while the driver was turning onto Massachusetts Avenue from Beacon street, one of the most dangerous intersections in Boston, according to a recent study. The intersection includes two turning lanes, bike lanes, crosswalks, a bus stop, a subway station, and curbside parking. It can be particularly difficult for large vehicles like tractor trailer trucks

Police located the driver of the truck out of state later Friday. The driver is reportedly cooperating with police.

Fellow bicyclists and friends of Kurmann are preparing the “ghost Bike” memorial, which includes a bicycle painted white and chained to a pole near where the accident occurred. The memorials are common to honor fallen bicyclists. Friends and family hope to have the donated ghost bike prepared soon.