Community Mourns Dr. Barbara Friedes, Killed While Biking in Rittenhouse Square

PHILADELPHIA, PA — Barbara Friedes, a 30-year-old doctor and chief resident at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), was tragically killed while riding her bike in Rittenhouse Square. The accident occurred around 7 p.m. on Wednesday when Friedes was struck by a 68-year-old man driving a blue car on Spruce Street, near the intersection with 18th Street. She was riding in the designated westbound bike lane at the time of the incident.

According to police reports, Friedes suffered severe head trauma and was quickly transported to Jefferson Hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries shortly thereafter. The driver involved in the accident has not been charged as the investigation continues.

Dr. Jeanine Ronan, an attending physician and program director of the Pediatrics Residency Program at CHOP, shared a heartfelt statement with CBS News Philadelphia, expressing the profound loss felt by the community. “Barbara was a beacon of light, and given her many talents, skills, and achievements, was selected to be a Chief Resident at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for this academic year,” Ronan stated. “She was loved by so many and embodied kindness, strength, and a deep compassion for all who crossed her path. This morning, the CHOP community is in mourning following her tragic loss and keeping her family, friends, and loved ones in our hearts.”

Friedes was an alumnus of Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, where she excelled academically and was highly regarded by her peers and mentors. Her untimely death has left a significant void in both the medical community and among those who knew her personally.

In the wake of the tragedy, there has been a considerable outcry on social media calling for urgent reforms to enhance the safety of the city’s streets for cyclists. Many have expressed their condolences and hopes for improved infrastructure to prevent similar incidents in the future. One poster shared, “So sad. I hope that Philly does better. I wish that other cities do better as well. Prayers for her family.” Another added, “I am so sorry to hear this. Such a tragedy. Hoping the city steps up to make things safer.”

The incident has highlighted ongoing concerns about road safety in Philadelphia, particularly for cyclists who rely on designated bike lanes. Advocates are urging city officials to take immediate action to address these issues and implement more robust measures to protect cyclists.

As the investigation into the accident continues, the community remains in mourning for Barbara Friedes, a dedicated physician whose life was tragically cut short. The impact of her loss resonates deeply within CHOP and the broader medical field, as well as among friends, family, and fellow cyclists. Funeral arrangements and memorial services for Dr. Friedes will be announced by her family in the coming days.