On July 26, a tragic incident unfolded at a Muni stop in San Francisco, claiming the life of 28-year-old Colden Kimber. Kimber, a student at San Francisco State University and an avid cyclist, was fatally injured while attempting to shield a family from an aggressive individual. Kimber, originally from New York, was at the transit hub with his girlfriend when he observed a man, later identified as 29-year-old Sean Collins, menacing a mother and her two children.
Court records reveal that Collins was issuing threats towards the family, prompting Kimber to intervene. As he placed himself between the family and Collins, Kimber was unexpectedly stabbed in the neck with a six-inch blade. The sudden, unprovoked attack left Kimber critically wounded as he awaited an incoming train.
Following the assault, Kimber was immediately transported to San Francisco General Hospital. Despite undergoing surgery, he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. In the wake of his death, a GoFundMe page established by his mother, Lara Litchfield-Kimber, has raised over $91,000 in his memory.
Litchfield-Kimber has expressed her profound grief and bewilderment over the senseless act of violence that ended her son’s life. She warmly recalled Kimber as a protective figure, often dubbed a “country moose” by those who knew him.
Collins was apprehended shortly after the incident, located mere blocks from the scene. He was subsequently arrested and charged with murder. Surveillance footage from the vicinity captured the horrific event, providing vital evidence for the case.
Kimber was pursuing a degree in kinesiology and was employed at American Cyclery, where he had spent three years repairing and building bikes. His boss, Bradley Woehl, spoke highly of Kimber, lauding his positive impact and irreplaceable character.
Kimber’s love for cycling began when he took his mother’s place in the New York Triathlon as she battled breast cancer. His frequent cycling led to local residents often reporting “Colden sightings,” as he was always seen on his bike.
A memorial bike ride in honor of Kimber has been scheduled for September 7. Meanwhile, Collins is due to appear in court for his arraignment on August 14.