Texas Cycling Team Faces Tragedy: Teen Hit by Truck, Another Diagnosed with Leukemia

The Heart of Texas Junior Cycling team grapples with devastating blows in a single day, as one rider fights for recovery and another begins cancer treatment.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

The Heart of Texas Junior Cycling team is reeling from a tragic double blow - one of their young riders, 16-year-old Walker Carroll, was critically injured in a hit-and-run accident, while another, 13-year-old Colton Young, was diagnosed with leukemia. The team and community have rallied to support the two families, but the road ahead will be long and challenging.

Why it matters

This story highlights the fragility and resilience of young athletes, as well as the importance of community support in the face of unimaginable adversity. It also underscores the risks inherent in the sport of cycling and the need for greater safety measures to protect young riders.

The details

On February 6th, Walker Carroll was riding with a teammate on FM 2957 near Hallsburg when he was struck by a Chevrolet Silverado that fled the scene. Carroll sustained severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury, spinal fracture, broken bones, and internal organ damage. Meanwhile, just hours later, 13-year-old Colton Young was diagnosed with leukemia after experiencing unexplained fatigue.

  • On February 6th, Walker Carroll was struck by a vehicle in a hit-and-run accident.
  • On February 6th, Colton Young was diagnosed with leukemia.

The players

Walker Carroll

A 16-year-old member of the Heart of Texas Junior Cycling team who was critically injured in a hit-and-run accident.

Colton Young

A 13-year-old member of the Heart of Texas Junior Cycling team who was diagnosed with leukemia.

Dan Carroll

The father of Walker Carroll, who shared updates on his son's condition and recovery.

Tamara Moore

The mother of Colton Young, who noted her son's unexplained fatigue prior to his leukemia diagnosis.

Brady Gibson

The head coach of the Heart of Texas Junior Cycling team, who expressed the team's commitment to supporting Walker and Colton.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Walker remains unconscious, and his recovery will be a year-long process. The family is leaning on their faith and the outpouring of support from the community.”

— Dan Carroll, Father of Walker Carroll (newsy-today.com)

“Colton had been unusually tired, even even as continuing to cycle at Cameron Park. Doctors anticipate a long-term treatment plan for Colton.”

— Tamara Moore, Mother of Colton Young (newsy-today.com)

“We must dedicate our season to both Walker and Colton. This is an 'endurance battle' but we are confident in our ability to overcome these challenges, fueled by the strength of our community.”

— Brady Gibson, Head Coach, Heart of Texas Junior Cycling team (newsy-today.com)

What’s next

The team is planning a benefit event to help with the medical expenses for Walker and Colton.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of safety measures for young cyclists and the power of community support in the face of unimaginable adversity. The Heart of Texas Junior Cycling team's resilience and dedication to their injured and ill teammates serve as an inspiration to all.