Brave Cyclist Fatally Stabbed While Protecting Mother and Children at San Francisco Train Station

A Tragic Act of Heroism

A 28-year-old man lost his life after stepping in to protect a mother and her two children from a threatening individual at a San Francisco train station. The young cyclist, Colden Kimber, became a symbol of selfless bravery during a senseless act of violence that stunned the community.

The Incident at Ingleside Transit Hub

On the afternoon of July 26, Colden Kimber was waiting at a Muni stop in the Ingleside neighborhood of San Francisco with his girlfriend. Nearby, a mother and her children were being harassed by an aggressive man making violent threats. Witnesses and court records describe the harasser shouting erratically at the terrified family, prompting Kimber to step in without hesitation.

Positioning himself between the family and the suspect, Kimber attempted to shield them from harm. As a train approached, the attacker suddenly lunged forward and stabbed Kimber in the neck with a six-inch blade in what authorities described as an “utterly unprovoked attack.”

A Life Cut Short

Kimber, a student at San Francisco State University studying kinesiology, was rushed to San Francisco General Hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries despite emergency surgery. His death left friends, family, and the local community devastated.

He had been working at American Cyclery, a local bike shop where he was known for his skill, kindness, and unwavering positivity. Co-workers described him as irreplaceable — both as a colleague and as a friend.

Remembering Colden Kimber

Originally from Dryden, New York, Kimber developed his passion for cycling after participating in a triathlon in place of his mother, who was undergoing treatment for breast cancer. His love for the sport continued to grow, and he became a well-known figure on the streets of San Francisco, often seen commuting by bike.

His mother, Lara Litchfield-Kimber, expressed deep sorrow over her son’s loss, describing him as someone with a deeply protective nature. “He had this thing where he wanted to make sure everyone around him was safe,” she shared. “There is no making sense of this and no words to convey the devastation we are feeling.”

A GoFundMe campaign launched in his memory has raised over $91,000 and continues to receive support from around the country. A memorial bike ride honoring Kimber is scheduled for September 7.

Arrest and Legal Proceedings

The suspected attacker, identified as Sean Collins, 29, was arrested just blocks away from the scene. Surveillance footage helped authorities identify and detain him. He has been charged with murder and is expected to appear in court for arraignment on August 14.

A Community Mourns a True Hero

Colden Kimber’s courage and compassion in the face of danger left a lasting impression. His final act of bravery — standing between danger and innocent lives — is being remembered as the ultimate expression of love, selflessness, and heroism.

As the community comes together to grieve, Kimber’s legacy continues to inspire those who knew him and even many who didn’t. His story is a reminder of the quiet strength in everyday heroes who act when it matters most.