The Lubbock legal and political communities are mourning the loss of David Nelson. Nelson was killed Wednesday morning (July 18) while bicycling in south Lubbock County.

KAMC News reported that the fatal accident occurred at the intersection of County Road 1240 and FM 41, south of Wolfforth. Texas DPS stated Nelson was traveling on a bicycle, westbound on FM 41, when a Ford pickup truck struck Nelson from behind. The Ford was driven by 37-year-old Rocky Wilson of Lubbock.

Nelson served as a Lubbock City Councilman from 1997-2002 and was the Republican candidate in the upcoming November election for Lubbock County Court at Law #3. Nelson earned his bachelor's and law degrees from Texas Tech in the 1970s.

Hours after the accident, the family of David Nelson issued the following statement:

"We want to thank everyone for the out pouring of support we are receiving during this tragic time. We are still in shock and working to process what happened. David was a beloved member of our Lubbock community and we know many of you will miss him as much as we will. We will be ready to talk more about David and celebrate his life soon. In the meantime we ask for your continued prayers as we mourn this unexpected loss."

Additional statements of condolences were issued by local elected officials and the City of Lubbock.

The City of Lubbock released this statement: "The City of Lubbock is saddened by the sudden loss of former City Councilman David Nelson. We are grateful for his years of service to our city and appreciate his continued desire to serve the public. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Nelson family during this difficult time."

"My heart is broken over the loss of my dear friend and former Lubbock City Councilman, David Nelson, and for his wife Ainsley," Congressman Jodey Arrington said. "David was one of the most kind, thoughtful, and loyal people I’ve ever known. He was passionate about his family; baseball and physical fitness; and serving Lubbock, Texas. My thoughts are with Ainsley, Jack, Jill, and his entire family, as I cannot fathom their grief. There are those who talk about their faith and others who just quietly and diligently live it. David was the latter, and I’m confident the Lord has reserved a special place in heaven for him."

Finally, the Lubbock County Commissioner's Court issued a collective statement:

"Lubbock County is saddened by the sudden loss of David Nelson. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Nelson family, his many friends and colleagues. David was a leader in our Community and a highly respected attorney. He was the Republican candidate for Judge of the Lubbock County Court at Law #3 for the upcoming November General Election. The leadership of the Lubbock County Republican Party will nominate the candidate to fill this untimely opening."

KFYO News has learned the Lubbock County Republican Party is slated to fill the ballot vacancy for Lubbock County Court at Law #3 during the month of August.

Funeral arrangements for Nelson are pending.

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