Community Rallies for Assaulted Cyclist

Just over a week after police found Austin Ridge, on Lucas Ave, the 28-year-old is still in the throes of recovery.

Ridge is out of intensive care – after brain surgery – and took his first steps in physical therapy earlier this week, the Press Democrat is reporting.

Though Ridge is expected to make a full recovery, the road hasn't been easy for the young man, who has already shown strength during his recovery from a car accident.  “He's our Iron Man,” his aunt Kim Ridge told the Press Democrat.

Despite Ridge's perseverance, the crime has left members of the community shocked and angry at the senseless crime. 

The Sonoma Index-Tribune was on the ground on Wednesday's for a 'Reclaim the Night,' walk, where 250 people gathered on Lucas Avenue, where the attack occurred.

A roster of benefits and fundraisers are scheduled for coming weeks to help pay for Ridge's significant medical bills, and the costs of a future at-home aid.

• Saturday, May 5 from 7 a.m. - noon will donate all earnings, not just profits, to the Ridge family.

• A 'Recycle Cans for Austin' fundraiser is scheduled for Sunday, June 3 at the Hanna Boys Center from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. For every 33-gallon garbage bag of recyclables donated, guests will receive a raffle ticket. To donate prizes, food or volunteer call 486-6484.

• Saturday, May 5 the will host a fundraiser will music dancing and bites at 8:30 p.m. No cover, donations will be received for the family.

• The Blue Moon Saloon will accept donations at a live music event on Friday, May 11 at 9 .m. The Braineaters and Roadside Bombs will perform. 

• The Ridge family has set up an account at Chase Bank at 501 Broadway, to receive donations in trust to Austin Robert Ridge.

• The , Ridge's regular watering hole, has set up a donation jar and raised more than $2,400 for his family.

Anyone with information on the incident is asked to call Sgt. Carlos Basurto with the Sonoma County Sheriffs’ Violent Crime Unit at 565-2185.