Whitehorse woman charged after June collision on the Alaska Highway that seriously injured Para cyclist and accessibility advocate Darryl Tait.
A Serious Training Ride Turns Dangerous
A Para cyclist’s training session took a devastating turn on June 7 along the Alaska Highway in Whitehorse. Local athlete and accessibility advocate Darryl Tait was hand-cycling south of downtown late that evening when he was struck from behind by a passing vehicle. The collision left him with serious injuries, including broken ribs and vertebrae, requiring hospital care.
Charges Announced Following Investigation
Yukon RCMP have now charged 39-year-old Ashley Kirkpatrick, also known as Ashley Godin, in connection with the crash. Following a months-long investigation, police laid charges of careless driving, operating a motor vehicle without a licence, and operating an unregistered vehicle. RCMP confirmed the announcement this week.
A Well-Known Athlete and Advocate
Tait is recognized across the territory not only for his athletic achievements but also for his advocacy. Paralyzed from the chest down after a 2009 snowmobile accident, he went on to compete as a Para athlete and became a prominent voice for accessibility and inclusive sport. At the time of the incident, he had been preparing for the Canada Summer Games.
Court Appearance Scheduled in December
Kirkpatrick is scheduled to appear in territorial court in Whitehorse on December 2. No further details about the case or potential penalties have been released. Officials say the legal process will determine the next steps.
Community Response and Ongoing Recovery
The collision has sparked renewed discussion in Whitehorse about highway safety, particularly for cyclists and mobility-device users. Supporters of Tait have continued to follow his recovery, emphasizing the importance of safe road practices and better infrastructure for adaptive athletes.
