Sarasota Ballet dancer killed in bike accident

Sarasota Ballet Corps de Ballet member Pedro Pupa was killed in a bike accident the afternoon of Wednesday, June 4, near FSU Center for the Performing Arts.

Pupa was leaving ballet rehearsal on his bicycle at approximately 2:45 p.m. He was struck by a small delivery box truck at the 5400 block of Bay Shore Road, and he died as a result of injuries, according to the Sarasota Police Department.

“Our hearts are breaking, as our much-loved little angel, Pedro Pupa, was taken so tragically from this world," said Margaret Barbieri, assistant director for The Sarasota Ballet, in a news release. "We are still in disbelief, and it is going to take some time for us all to come to terms with the sadness we feel for our enormous loss.

"Pedro was a very special young man with such energy and a zest for life, but most especially we will remember him for his beautiful smile that radiated and lit everywhere he went and also for his great love and passion for dancing."

The Sarasota Ballet will hold a sunset vigil 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 9, at The Ringling. All friends and supporters are invited to attend.