Cyclist killed in Smethwick hit-and-run
A cyclist has been killed after a hit-and-run in the Black Country.
The victim was cycling in Lewisham Road, Smethwick, approaching the junction with Middlemore Road, when he was struck.
He was taken to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham but died from his injuries yesterday.
West Midlands Police is appealing for witnesses to catch the driver – who officers ‘strongly believe’ returned to the scene afterwards.
Detective Sergeant Paul Hughes, from the force’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit, said: “From our investigation so far we know the van involved is a white, possibly a long wheel based Volkswagen Crafter, or Mercedes Sprinter, and it may have nearside damage.
“The driver would have definitely known they had been involved in a collision and we strongly believe they actually came back and drove past the scene.
“The cyclist was left lying on the pavement in an extremely serious condition and it is only thanks to passers-by that medical assistance was obtained.
“I would appeal directly to the driver of the van to think about what has happened and to come forward and speak to us,” he added.
“We have already spoken to some witnesses and are assessing CCTV, but if anyone saw the impact and has not yet contacted us, or may have caught the collision on a dash-cam or cycle-cam, or can offer any other information then I’d urge them to get in touch.”
The collision happened in the early hours of Tuesday.
Witnesses, or anyone with further information about the incident, is being urged to contact police on 101, or email them at FL_COLLISION_INVEST@west-midlands.pnn.police.uk, quoting log 187 from October 30.
