Family starts petition for higher safety on State Route 86 in Imperial

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KYMA) - Ruben Camargo was killed on March 19 while riding his bicycle along California State Route 86. In the weeks since his death, his family has begun advocating for improved safety measures, saying current conditions put both bicyclists and pedestrians at risk.

His sister, Shandra Camargo, said the effort began as a way to bring attention to the dangers of the roadway.

“We started this to try and get change out there because it’s so dark,” she said.

The family has launched a petition on Change.org - which you can find here - that urges officials in Imperial to prioritize safety improvements, including better lighting and infrastructure for cyclists.

“I believe that with better lighting and safety for bicyclists, it can be safer for anybody in the community - whether you're biking or walking,” Shandra Camargo said.

The city is currently working on a long-term beautification plan that includes new sidewalks and a dedicated bike path along Highway 86. However, the project could take several years to complete.

In the meantime, community members have begun rallying behind the family’s efforts. According to Camargo, support for the petition has grown quickly through social media.

“It seems like as soon as we started posting in those groups, a lot of people were on board to sign,” she said.

To honor Ruben Camargo and continue raising awareness, the family will hold a vigil on Saturday at Mando’s Stereo at 7 p.m. in El Centro.

“To remember him, honor him, and raise awareness to the community about making the streets safer for pedestrians and for drivers,” she said.

The family says they plan to continue sharing the petition and advocating for change as they push for safer streets in Imperial.