Mike Sloan, a seasoned ride supervisor for the Portland Bicycling Club and a respected member of the Portland, Oregon, community, passed away on January 5, 2026, in a solo riding accident. He was declared dead after the event, which happened at 8:30 p.m., close to the junction of Southeast Division Street and Southeast 52nd Avenue.
Mr. Sloan was approaching the Division Street crossing while heading south on Southeast 52nd Avenue, a designated bicycle-priority corridor, on his way to his home. Bystander reports state that he suddenly lost control of his bicycle and his balance, which led to a violent ejection over the handlebars that resulted in fatal injuries.
A number of people who were there promptly gave aid, and some of them used their cars to create a barrier around the scene until emergency personnel could arrive, demonstrating the witnesses’ extreme worry.
In a quick evaluation, Portland Police Bureau officers looked for video footage, which they were unable to find, and spoke with many witnesses who all agreed that no additional cars were involved. The preliminary investigation determined that the likely cause of the loss of control was a significant pavement defect—a roughly one-foot-square pothole with distinct edges and loose aggregate—on a modest gradient.
Later, his working illumination-equipped Trek brand road bicycle was discovered leaning against a nearby fire hydrant. Whether the threat was completely hidden by reduced visibility or the precise location of the pavement breakdown is still unknown.
Within the Portland Bicycling Club, Mr. Sloan was a foundational figure for an extended period, regarded as one of its most committed trip organizers who facilitated notable outings ranging from weekly evening gatherings at Irving Park to extensive routes such as the journey to Astoria.
