Paralyzed FMX rider Bruce Cook gets stolen bike back thanks to social media

KELOWNA – Thanks to social media and the quick actions of a friend, paralyzed freestyle motocross rider Bruce Cook has his stolen bike back.

The customized, hand-cranked bicycle was stolen from Cook’s property at around 7 p.m. August 14. According to his Facebook page, he posted the theft on social media and within 15 minutes a friend of his spotted it only two blocks from his house.

Sara Dawn Pidwerbesky recognized the $2,000 bike right away, called police and a 21-year-old man was arrested.

Police say the bike was returned in good condition and the man now faces possible charges of possession of stolen property under $5,000 and will appear in court October 23.

A press release from RCMP says the bike was unlocked at the time it was stolen and urges the public to ensure all property is secured.

Cook, an internationally-known FMX performer, was paralyzed from the waist down attempting a double front flip at a Nitro Circus event in January.

To contact the reporter for this story, email Adam Proskiw at aproskiw@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-0428. To contact the editor, email mjones@infotelnews.ca or call 250-718-2724.