CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A missionary from Magna was killed after a car lost control and struck the 18-year-old while he was riding his bike on a sidewalk in North Carolina.
Aleki Langi was on temporary reassignment in the Charlotte mission while awaiting a visa to serve in Kingston, Jamaica for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was killed Thursday when the driver of a Polestar SUV veered onto the sidewalk where Langi was riding his bike with another missionary.
Langi was pronounced dead on the scene by first responders, while the second missionary sustained minor injuries.
The driver of the Polestar ran from the scene and has not been identified as of Friday afternoon.
Langi's family in Utah shared a statement with FOX 13 News.
"Aleki Faletoto Anderson Langi was respectful, loving and loyal. He loved his parents, siblings and family. He loved the Lord and was excited to serve a mission. He was the best example to his family, especially his siblings. We will miss him deeply but we find comfort in our Heavenly Father’s plan. Grateful for the time we were given with him."
Langi, who attended Cyprus High School, was remembered Friday by the girls' basketball team.
"We are saddened to hear of the passing of one of our Pirates ... Aleki helped us in our 2023 season to prepare our team for games. His eagerness to help and his passion for learning left impressions on us all," the team wrote on social media. "Our prayers and condolences to the Langi family during this difficult time. Pirate Nation and Magna Community lost a great individual.
"We will miss you dearly, Ofa Lahi Atu Leki."
