Nine years since local cyclist killed, annual memorial ride this weekend

PUEBLO, Colo. (KRDO) -- Tomorrow, September 17, marks nine years since local cyclist Tim Watkins’ remains were discovered on Mount Herman near Monument in 2017. 

An autopsy determined Watkins had been shot and killed, and the case was ruled a homicide by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office (EPSO). 

Nine years later, his case remains cold. Friends and family are still seeking answers and justice.

Tim Watkins grew up in Palmer Lake and was loved and admired by many in the community. Robert Meeker, his former student and longtime friend, called Watkins an icon in the Colorado cycling world.

“I can’t rest well knowing that person is still out there,” Meeker said.

Each year, near the date Watkins was discovered in September, they host a memorial bike ride honoring him.

On Saturday, September 19, the memorial ride will start at the Tim Watkins Memorial outside the Palmer Lake Library at 1 p.m., finishing at the Trails End Taproom in Monument at 2:30 p.m.

Watkins built and developed bike trails in the Tri-Lakes community, including the one where his life would be taken — Limbaugh Trail. 

Meeker helped put together the civilian search and rescue team that would find Watkins’ body in a shallow grave near the trail three days after his disappearance.

Meeker said they hope to keep Watkins’ case active and in the front of people’s minds as they ride each year in his honor.

“It’s been nine years, and people start to forget about the fact that a local cycling legend was gunned down and murdered," Meeker said. "It’s not ok for us to just forget about that.”

KRDO13 reached out to EPSO for an update on the case. Investigators did not have new information to share with the public as the case is still open and under investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this case is asked to contact EPSO.

Stay up to date with the latest local news, sports, and investigations by downloading the KRDO13 app. Click here to download it from the Apple App Store. Android users can download it from Google Play here.