Remembering Riley O'Neil

In honor of Riley O’Neil (LAS MA '17), a student leader at Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development during his time at DePaul University, and a passionate advocate for bike safety. Riley was a beloved leader in the City of Chicago’s bicycle program and an employee at the Chicago Department of Transportation as a Complete Streets Urban Planner. As a lifelong Chicagoan, he dedicated his life to making the streets safer while promoting a healthier, more sustainable environment for all. Riley’s commitment touched countless lives, and his efforts made a lasting impact on the community he loved so much. Tragically, Riley was killed while riding his bike home on June 5, 2026, in the very kind of accident he spent his career trying to prevent. His loss has left a deep void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him. In the wake of this heartbreaking event, we aim to honor Riley's legacy in a way that reflects his values and celebrates the difference he made. Funds donated at this link to DePaul’s Chaddick Institute for Metropolitan Development support fellowships, scholarships, student skill-building activities, public lectures, and research among other initiatives related to sustainable urban development and the creation of safer cities.

Photo credit: Chicago Department of Transportation