Massive Hells Angels Procession Expected to Disrupt Surrey Traffic for Founding Member’s Memorial

A major motorcycle procession of more than 700 Hells Angels members is expected to snarl traffic in Surrey, B.C., on Thursday as the group gathers to honour a founding member at a celebration of life.

Surrey Police and RCMP are advising residents of significant disruptions and increased gang presence from Thursday through Sunday, with bikers expected to attend multiple events throughout the region in memory of Rick Ciarniello, who died in March at age 80.

Memorial Ride Route and Timing

The procession is expected to begin around 11:30 a.m. in Coquitlam and end at a banquet hall near the 12300 block of Patullo Place in Surrey. Traffic will likely be affected between 11:30 a.m. and noon, particularly in the following areas:

• Highway 1 to Highway 15 northbound

• Highway 17 to Bridgeview Drive

• Bridgeview Drive to King George Boulevard

• King George Boulevard to 120 Street

Police will be monitoring key intersections to ensure road safety for both drivers and pedestrians.

One of the Largest Gatherings of Its Kind

“This could be one of the largest gatherings of outlaw motorcycle gang members British Columbia has ever seen,” said Surrey RCMP Staff Sgt. Lindsey Houghton.

Ciarniello, described in an obituary as one of the first Hells Angels in B.C., was widely respected among the biker community. His memorial is expected to draw members and affiliates from across North America.

Police Precautions and Public Guidance

Extra officers will be deployed across Surrey, especially near bars and restaurants, to deter any gang-related incidents. While police anticipate a largely peaceful weekend, they are urging the public to remain alert.

Houghton noted that while members often cooperate with law enforcement on logistics like traffic, their imposing presence — including wearing gang “colours” and leather vests — can cause unease.

“They have a certain aura and persona about them, which can be very off-putting to people,” he said. “If you see them out there, just have some awareness.”

Authorities are emphasizing that while the event is expected to be non-violent, its scale alone warrants caution and preparedness from both drivers and residents.