Melbourne father killed after electric unicycle crash on bike trail
A father has been tragically killed after his electric unicycle crashed on a bike trail in Melbourne.
James Barella, 35, was travelling along the Darebin Creek Trail in Bellfield about 5pm yesterday when the incident occurred.
Police said he may have been travelling at speed when he lost control near Wimpole Crescent.
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James Barella died yesterday. 9News
Flowers and tributes have been placed along the Darebin Creek trail, where the accident happened.
It's believed Barella was riding home when he crossed onto the wrong side of the path while trying to avoid cyclists.
He was thrown off the unicycle and crashed into the guard rail, dying at the scene.
"He was just a big, gentle teddy bear basically," friend Alex told 9News.
"I don't think anyone can say anything bad about him."
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Family and friends today paid tribute to the 35-year-old. 9News
Flower tributes have been left at the scene. Nine
The Heidelberg Heights man was an experienced unicycle rider.
Barella's family today arrived at the scene of the accident to pay tribute to him.
"I've just come from the coroner's office and I've seen him myself," Barella's brother Alex told 9News.
"And I'll never get to see him again."
Members of the electric unicycle community are organising a memorial ride for the victim in the coming days
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