Community Remembers Tyler Johnson, Questions Skateboarder Safety at Chambers Bay

Losing a young life in a tragic accident is never easy and the community has been sending support to family and friends of Tyler Johnson, the 21 year-old UP resident who was killed Saturday afternoon in a longboarding accident at Chambers Bay Regional Park.

According to UP Police, Johnson was longboarding down the switchbacks on the northwest side of the park, when he went off the trail and struck a tree or stump. He died enroute to Tacoma General Hospital.

Johnson wasn't wearing a helmet at the time of the crash, according to KIRO 7.

Commenters on our first UP Patch article on Johnson's death and on the UP Patch Facebook page share condolences for Johnson's family, but also question skateboarder safety at Chambers Bay.

"This is heart breaking. I dont know how many time I see kids on their boards on the trails with no helmets especially along the hills and switch backs like the section as you drive down to the park," wrote Patch user Kimberley Mae Zimmerman-Strickhorn.

Some said more signage and warning signs are needed on the trail.

"Sad to hear about the young man that died. But I think that we need some rules on the trail. That is why we have a skate park," UP Patch user Dogolo-Fenwick Laurie posted. "They could have been seriously hurt or died like the other young man. If his board had gone over could hurt others down below."

According to Lakewood-JBLM Patch, Johnson was a 2010 Clover Park graduate and former lineman for the Warrior football team.

The following message was posted on his Facebook page:

Tyler Dean Johnson passed away on June 15th 2013. He was a wonderful person who had many loved ones and was an amazing boyfriend. He will never be forgotten. Rest In Peace Tyler Dean Johnson.

The news prompted an outcry of condolences and memories from people who knew him, through the social media site:

"R.I.P Tyler. You were one crazy dude who could always make anyone smile. Your joy was contagious. You'll surely be missed my friend," user Krissy wrote.

"Thank you for being a great role model for so many young men and women of our town, and may they carry on your memory. Much Love to you man," user Michael wrote.

A memorial service for Johnson is scheduled for this Friday, June 21 at Shepherd of the Lakes Chapel in Lakewood. Read his full obituary on the Edwards Memorial website.

Do you think more rules need to be enacted at Chambers Bay to protect skateboarders, or are helmets more of a personal decision each person has to make for themselves? Tell us in the comments.