Oliver Ball-Reed Killed in Tragic BMX Crash at Hobart Indoor Track

 HOBART, IN — A tragic accident at the Steel Wheels BMX indoor track in Hobart claimed the life of Oliver Ball‑Reed, a 13‑year‑old boy from Hebron, Indiana, on Saturday night.

According to the Lake County Coroner’s Office, Ball‑Reed was riding at the facility when he crashed and sustained multiple blunt‑force injuries. Emergency crews rushed him to St. Mary’s Medical Center in Hobart, but despite efforts to save him, he was pronounced dead just before 10 p.m. The coroner ruled the manner of death an accident.

Steel Wheels BMX, a nonprofit organization that operates both the Hobart indoor track and an outdoor course in Portage, confirmed the incident in a social‑media post. The group expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to Ball‑Reed’s parents, Mary and Phil Ball‑Reed, and his younger brother Ellis, with whom Oliver had raced for about eight years. The organization noted that the BMX community is mourning the loss of a young rider who had grown up in the sport.

The accident drew responses from multiple agencies, including Hobart police, Hobart fire, and the Portage Fire Department, all of whom assisted at the scene. Authorities have not released further details about what specifically caused the crash or any other circumstances surrounding the incident.

Ball‑Reed’s death has sent shockwaves through the local BMX community and beyond. Friends, fellow riders, and supporters have shared tributes online, remembering him as a passionate athlete who loved racing alongside his brother. His dedication to BMX was evident in his years of participation, and his loss is being felt deeply by those who knew him both on and off the track.

The tragedy also highlights the inherent risks of extreme sports like BMX racing, where riders often push themselves to achieve speed and skill in challenging environments. While Steel Wheels BMX has long been regarded as a safe and supportive venue for riders of all ages, the accident underscores the importance of continued safety measures and awareness in the sport.

Community members in Hobart and Hebron have rallied around the Ball‑Reed family, offering support and condolences during this difficult time. Vigils and memorial rides are being discussed as ways to honor Oliver’s memory and celebrate his love for BMX racing.

As the investigation continues, officials are expected to review the circumstances of the crash to determine whether any additional safety recommendations should be made. For now, the focus remains on supporting the grieving family and remembering a young life lost too soon.

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