Contributed Photo: Ian Mouser was cycling across the country when he was struck and killed just east of Safford on U.S. Highway 70 early Thursday morning.
By Jon Johnson
SAFFORD – A number of people traversing the United States either by walking, skating, or bicycling come through Safford on their route. For one such mission, it was the end.
Ian T. Mouser, 42, of Portland, Oregon, was eastbound on U.S. Highway 70 Thursday morning east of Safford when he was struck by a Dodge pickup truck driven by a 27-year-old Pima man at about 4:20 a.m.
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) was attempted at the scene, however, Mouser never regained consciousness and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Arizona Department of Public Safety Media Relations Specialist Bart Graves advised that “It’s unlikely criminal charges will be filed, however, the investigation is ongoing.”
Mouser was the Founder/Executive Director for My Voice Music and was on the fourth day of pursuing his dream of riding a bicycle across the United States. He leaves behind a wife and a 6-year-old son. A GoFundMe has been created to assist with the family’s expenses.
“Today, Oct. 14, 2021, a beautiful soul was lost in a tragic accident,” the update on the GoFundMe reported. “Ian Mouser, the Founder and Executive Director of My Voice Music, and our dear friend, passed away while on an incredible cycling journey and fundraiser across the country. Ian leaves behind his wife, Karen, and son, Jude (6), in addition to countless others touched by his extraordinary passion for youth and music, as well as his profound ability to connect with his community. In this difficult time, please respect his family’s privacy. We will do our best to handle your inquiries on their behalf and will try to post updates here. We may be organizing a ride in Ian’s memory.”
My Voice Music released a statement that included the following, “A deeply compassionate and creative person, Ian dedicated his life to using music to heal — touching the lives of over 14,000 young people. Words cannot do justice to this incredible person whose kindness, strength, and vision will continue to be a bright light for so many of us.”
“He would want us to sing Let It Be, the song that guided his journey with My Voice Music,” the GoFundMe update stated. “He closed most MVM events and classes with a short sing-along of it. ‘And when the night is cloudy there is still a light that shines on me. Shinin’ until tomorrow, let it be.'”
