Teen Boy Declared Brain Dead After Being Hit by Car While Riding Bike in Washington

A teen boy was hit by a vehicle while riding his bike in Washington on Monday evening and is on a ventilator.

Jonathan Gillespie Jr.’s family reported KDKA-TV that he had been certified brain dead following a crash at the junction of Chestnut and Washington streets.

“My daughter-in-law messaged me and told me what had happened,” explained Jo Ann Price.

Jo Ann Price claims to have received an alarming message from her daughter-in-law shortly after 6:30 p.m. on Monday.

“My heart sank.” I was in disbelief. “I still can’t believe anything happened,” Price explained.

The message informed Price that her daughter-in-law’s younger brother, Jonathan Gillespie, had been hit by a car while riding his dirt bike with a buddy, and the situation did not look good.

“It’s upsetting and heartbreaking and shouldn’t have happened,” she told me.

According to police, the driver of the vehicle that hit Gillespie remained on the site and provided life-saving help until paramedics arrived. Gillespie was then brought to a parking lot across the street and airlifted to Children’s Hospital.

“We’re hoping for the best, but…” Price explained.

According to Price, Gillespie had a promising future, when was only 15. He excelled in football and wrestling at Trinity Junior High School. She described him as warm and caring, with a smile that could light up a room.

She remembered the last time she saw him.

“He had a huge smile on his face. Happy as can be, having fun with the family and even finding eggs. “We had an early Easter for my grandson, and he was out there hunting eggs with everyone,” Price explained.

when the tragedy is still being investigated, Price urged motorists to pay closer attention when driving because it could save their lives.

“Pay attention to your surroundings, turn off your cellphones, and don’t fool with your radios. There are people all around, both youngsters and grownups. “You need to pay attention,” she replied.

The family told KDKA-TV that they’re waiting for loved ones to arrive at the hospital to say their final goodbyes before taking Gillespie off life support.

If you have any information concerning this collision, please call the City of Washington Police Department at 724-223-4225.

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