Slain bicyclist's family renews appeal
By KELLI MIURA
Advertiser Staff Writer
WAHIAWA — One week has passed since 18-year-old David Wayne Aldridge II was killed in a hit-and-run accident, and his family is still searching for answers that may lead to the driver who was responsible.
"Once again, I come to you, the public, and ask for you to check your neighbors' cars, ask people about their accident — if somebody unexpectedly asked you for a ride last week, ask them why, what happened to their vehicle," said Army Staff Sgt. David Aldridge, father of the victim.
"Somebody out here knows what happened that night when my son was killed," he said yesterday, speaking from Schofield Barracks where he has been stationed since November.
Aldridge's son was riding his bicycle home after work along Kamehameha Highway near the Dole Plantation when a speeding vehicle veered onto the shoulder and struck him at around 1:35 a.m. July 22. He was first taken to Wahiawa General Hospital and later transferred to The Queen's Medical Center, where he died.
"Losing a child is like the worst nightmare in the world," said Susanne Aldridge, who joined her husband along with their 3-year-old daughter, Destiny. "It's the worst feeling in the world."
Aldridge said police have not contacted him since Wednesday morning when they told him that thought the vehicle that killed his son was a red, flatbed Toyota truck with lights on top. Police say the vehicle may have front-end damage and broken headlights.
Aldridge yesterday also appealed to the driver, asking him to turn himself in.
HPD spokeswoman Michelle Yu said police are also asking the public for help.
Meanwhile, donations can be made to Friends of David Wayne Aldridge II at any First Hawaiian Bank to help with funeral expenses. Details for contributions toward a reward fund are still being worked out.
A memorial service for David Aldridge II, who wanted to attend college in Germany and become an entrepreneur, will be held from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. today at the Main Post Chapel at Schofield Barracks. Burial will be in Jeffersonville, Ind..