MESA, AZ (AZFamily) – A Valley family is mourning the death of their loved one, Evan Adams, who died while riding his motorcycle on the highway in Mesa.
A driver in a truck pulling a trailer struck and killed Adams when changing lanes last month.
Friends tell Arizona’s family that Adams knew how dangerous motorcycle riding could be, so he always took safety precautions seriously. They said he always wore his helmet and other protective equipment, no matter what.
His death comes as a shock, and those close to him hope it is a reminder to everyone to pay attention when driving and look twice before changing lanes.
“He always knew exactly what to say, no matter the circumstance,” said one of his close friends, Amanda Shardy. “He was just one of those people you could rely on for anything. He was always ready to help.”
A handful of photos are all she has left of her good friend.
The crash that killed Adams happened Oct. 22 on the Loop 202 Red Mountain freeway near Center Street.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety says the driver of a truck pulling a trailer with two cars on it had a brake problem. Their tire blew up and as they entered the HOV lane, they hit Adams, who was heading home from work.
“I feel like he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time,” she said.
Troopers say Adams was pinned against the median and killed instantly.
“You kind of hope for that, you know, we don’t want him to suffer. We don’t want him to be in pain, so hearing that makes me think it’s gotten a little better if that’s possible,” Shardy said.
The 37-year-old Queen Creek man loved his two dogs and being outdoors.
“He died doing what he loved,” she said.
Shardy has twin daughters who called Adams their uncle. Her last conversation with “Uncle Evan” was when she invited him to the girls’ upcoming birthday party.
“I know he wouldn’t miss it, and I know he’ll still be there in spirit, watching over us,” she said.
The sudden loss has given Shardy a new perspective on the importance of cherishing every moment with those you love.
“Love more, take pictures, you know, and don’t take life for granted,” she said.
Adams’ mother shared this statement about her son:
“He was one of a kind: he reached out to others and wanted the best for them. He always defended friends and strangers and encouraged them to be the best they could be. He was great with children and was an uncle to so many children who will remember him forever. He stayed close to his family and made sure we all kept in touch. He knew that family was everything and he loved it and lived it in his daily life with his biological and chosen families. A wonderful son, friend and ally to all he knew.”
DPS says the driver was cited for the crash, and friends say Adams will be buried later this week. Shardy organizes one GoFundMe to help cover his funeral expenses.
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