A woman who was killed while riding her bike in Rittenhouse Square has been identified by her family as Barbara Friedes, a 30-year-old doctor.
Friedes was a chief resident at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
She was riding a bike around 7 p.m. Wednesday when she was hit by a 68-year-old man driving a blue car.
The accident occurred on Spruce Street near the intersection of Spruce and 18th as Friedes was riding in the designated westbound bike lane.
According to police, she suffered ‘severe head trauma’ and was taken to Jefferson Hospital where she died a short time later.
“Barbara was a beacon of light, and given her many talents, skills, and achievements, was selected to be a Chief Resident at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for this academic year,” Dr. Jeanine Ronan, attending physician and program director of the Pediatrics Residency Program, said in a statement shared with CBS News Philadelphia.
“She was loved by so many and embodied kindness, strength and a deep compassion for all who crossed her path. This morning, the CHOP community is in mourning following her tragic loss and keeping her family, friends and loved ones in our hearts,” Ronan continued.
Friedes attended Johns Hopkins University of Medicine for medical school.
So far, no person has been charged in connection with the accident.
On social media an uproar has sprung up calling for reform of the city’s laws.
“So sad. I hope that Philly does better. I wish that other cities do better as well. Prayers for her family,” one poster said.
“I am so sorry to hear this. Such a tragedy. Hoping the city steps up to make things safer,” another poster added.