LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — The family of the 56-year-old bicyclist killed during an attack Sunday morning in the east valley speaks for the first time.

8 News Now’s Cristen Drummond sat down with Michelle “Shelli” Weissman’s husband and friends who recall the legacy she leaves behind.

“It’s been pretty much a complete shock,” said husband Lonny Weissman.

They are trying to comprehend this sudden and senseless loss.

“Something I could not imagine or dream up if I even took the hardest effort I possibly could,” added Weissman.

Weissman reflects on the life of his wife, or as family and friends call her, “Shelli.”

“She was a ray of sunshine,” said her husband.

That light dimming Sunday morning when Shelli was killed while riding her bicycle on Hollywood Boulevard in the east valley.

Police say a minivan passenger leaning out of the window intentionally pushed her.

“What happened was a flat out horrendous and unnecessary tragedy that was 100 percent avoidable, added Weissman.

Weissman says Shelli started cycling during the pandemic. Her route included this stretch of Hollywood Blvd.

“She would go out and want to ride from here to the Wetlands Park loop and go out there and ride the bike trail,” added Weissman.

A new hobby among her many interests according to friends.

“She liked to go to the gym and work out. But her and I we would go to concert and when we were younger, we loved to go dancing,” said Elena Presilla, best friend.

Shelli was born and raised in Las Vegas and graduated from Las Vegas High School.

Friends describe her in three words.

“Compassionate, kind, caring,” said Teressa Sherrod, friend.

“She’s always thinking about others, always,” added Weissman.

The legacy those closest say she leaves behind.

Boyd Gaming released a statement Tuesday. Her husband shared that she was the Hotel Director of the Cannery Hotel and Casino on Craig Road.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic and senseless loss of our team member, Shelli. She was well-known and well-liked by the entire Cannery team, and we will miss her. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this very difficult time.”

David Strow, Vice President, Corporate Communications