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Teen Cyclist Killed in Hit-and-Run: Family Pleads for Answers
23 Jul
Summary
- Thirteen-year-old Sasha Balandin died in a July 14 hit-and-run.
- Police seek a silver/gray 2008-2011 Ford Focus with specific damage.
- Family advocates for traffic light at intersection after two deaths.
A Minnesota family is enduring profound grief following the tragic death of their 13-year-old son, Sasha Balandin, who was killed in a hit-and-run on July 14. The incident occurred at approximately 9:45 p.m. at the intersection of Highway 50 and Dushane Parkway in Farmington.
Sasha was riding his bicycle when he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. His parents, Evgeniy and Elena, are awaiting news of an arrest, struggling with the pain of their loss and the driver's continued freedom.
Authorities believe the suspect vehicle is a silver or gray 2008-2011 Ford Focus, exhibiting front-end or passenger-side damage and missing its passenger-side mirror. Police are appealing to the public for any information that could help identify the car and its driver.
The family is also calling for urgent safety upgrades at the intersection, noting that another fatal crash occurred there last year. They are advocating for the installation of a traffic light to prevent future tragedies.
To honor Sasha's memory, the family plans to create hats with the message "Look up for Sasha," with proceeds supporting the Farmington Police Department. A fundraiser has also been established to assist the family during this difficult time.
