DELAND, Fla. – Bikers are hitting the streets of Volusia County this weekend to honor an 8-year-old boy who was killed by two dogs in DeLand.
Michael Millett was riding his bike in his neighborhood when the dogs attacked him in January. Sadly, he died from his injuries.
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As Michael’s family fights for justice, the community is coming together to support them. Hundreds of people are expected to join the event on Sunday, which will start at Sledz East Cycles on Spring Garden Avenue.
Mandy Shrader, the event organizer, felt a strong urge to help after hearing Michael’s story, even though she had never met his family.
”My soul just screamed, let’s do something,” she said.
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Mandy lives near where the tragic attack happened, and the shock of the incident stayed with her.
According to Volusia deputies, Michael was riding his bike with a friend when the two loose dogs approached. When Michael tried to pet one of the dogs, they attacked him, resulting in his death.
“This tragedy has affected so many people in Central Florida,” Mandy said. “It takes a village to make the change that’s needed by the laws to protect other families in this community.”
On Wednesday, Michael’s family was in Tallahassee with Sheriff Mike Chitwood, advocating for House Bill 593. This bill aims to increase penalties for dog owners whose pets attack people, causing serious injury or death.
Mandy shared that her husband was also attacked by dogs, which made Michael’s story resonate with her. Thankfully, her husband is OK now, but the close call highlighted the need for change.
The charity ride, called a poker run, will start at Shredz and include five stops, ending at The Inn Between Bar in DeLand. The event aims to raise awareness for the law change and funds for Michael’s family.
“The bikers in this community are amazing,” Mandy said. “They come together, show support, and raise funds for each other when something tragic happens. The biker crowd is made up of good people.”
If you don’t want to ride a motorcycle, you can still join the cause. Just head to the last stop at The Inn Between Bar around 2 p.m.
You can find the full details of the charity ride here.
Registration is from 9 – 11 a.m. on Sunday.
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