No one saw it coming until it was already too late. A beloved California high school coach died in a freak accident Monday crashing his bicycle into a metal gate that impaled him.
Marion Adams, a popular track and field coach at Rio Linda High School, was impaled by a partially open parking lot gate as he was leaving the school on his bicycle in what reports have deemed a "freak accident," according to The Sacramento Bee. As Adams began to ride his bicycle out of the parking lot, a student called back to him to say goodbye and Adams reportedly then turned back in recognition, The Los Angeles Times reported. However brief the distraction was, it proved to be just long enough for him to unexpectedly smash his bike into the open arm of the metal swing gate ahead, abruptly impaling him, causing critical injuries.
Adams was initially rushed to a nearby hospital still alive, and doctors performed two surgeries on the teacher to treat internal wounds. The injuries were too serious, though; Adams passed away early Tuesday morning.
"Marion was the most popular and nicest man on campus; just a great guy," said Mike Morris, Rio Linda High school athletic director and varsity football coach, The Sacramento Bee reported. "It's a huge loss, devastating to our community. He's an example of how great Rio Linda is as a school and community. He couldn't wait to come back here. This place meant everything to him."
Morris described the 59-year-old Adams as more than just another teacher, but a great friend and a "genuine personality" who was the source of constant jokes and laughter around the school.
Adams' brother, David Adams, said it was obvious how much his job at the school, and the kids he taught meant to him.
"Marion loved kids, loved seeing them do well," said David Adams. "He absolutely loved Rio Linda. He gave up a job that paid really well to teach and coach at his favorite school."
Adams graduated from Rio Linda in 1972 and had made a promise to return one day to coach. A vigil was held honoring his memory Tuesday evening packed with hundreds of friends and family.