HIXSON, Tenn. (WDEF) – In the past two weeks, two young men lost their lives in separate motorcycle accidents.
One crash happened on Highway 153 and claimed the life of Riley Hairsine.
The second happened on Hixson Pike and claimed the life of Dathan Thomas.
Inked Moto Garage Tattoo Shop hosted a benefit honoring both riders, showing support for their families while also spreading awareness about the importance of safe driving.
“I don’t know how to compress something like this into a statement,” said Gerome Thomas, Dathan’s father.
Across the room sat Dathan’s mother, emotionally preparing to get a tattoo in memory of her son.
“Yeah, I have no decisions. They know,” she said through tears.
Morgan Perez, owner of Inked Moto Garage Tattoo Shop, organized the benefit alongside her husband, Mark Perez.
Mark stated that the loss has impacted many people in the local community.
“Both men were nice young men. Both came to the shop. Both had a really great sense of humor. This whole deal is a tragic loss,” Perez elaborated.
Gerome Thomas expressed gratitude for the support his family has received from the community during such a difficult time.
“I have been humbled by this community, from the outreach of businesses and people I’ve never even met before showing up to support us,” Thomas explained. “Their dedication and the watch they have stood for my son, sleeping on the side of the road, has been humbling. It’s what real community should look like.”
Perez said the shop hopes the tragedy serves as a reminder for drivers to stay alert and cautious on the road.
“I guess the biggest takeaway from this tragic event would be don’t text and drive,” Perez stated. “Pay attention to your surroundings. Look twice before you change lanes.
Use your signals and be aware of motorcycles and objects on the roadway.”
The benefit brought together friends, family members, and community supporters, all united in remembering the lives of two young men gone too soon while encouraging safer driving habits across the community.
