A serious road traffic accident occurred during the RideLondon cycling event in Fyfield, Essex, on Sunday, May 26 at approximately 10:25 am. A silver Ford Focus reportedly entered Ongar Road, which was closed for the cycling festivities, striking a participant and causing severe spinal injuries. The driver of the vehicle failed to stop at the scene, leaving the injured cyclist with four vertebrate fractures.
The incident occurred amidst a mass cycling celebration involving around 20,000 cyclists covering various distances, including a 100km route through London and Essex. Authorities are now seeking the assistance of witnesses to the accident as the pursuit for the hit-and-run driver continues.
Essex Police are urging members of the public to come forward with any relevant information. Witnesses can submit reports via the Essex Police website or engage with the online Live Chat service, which operates from 10am to 9pm on weekdays, excluding public holidays. Additionally, anonymous tips can be provided to the independent charity Crimestoppers through their website or by calling 0800 555 111.
In light of this incident, the police are likely to stress the importance of road safety, particularly during public events such as RideLondon, which require temporary road closures for the protection of participants. As the investigation unfolds, updates regarding the search for the driver and the condition of the injured cyclist are anticipated.
Source: My London