Cyclist killed by 'drunk' P-plater | Northern Rivers News | Local News in Northern Rivers

Byline Tag Byline Email | 18th July 2009

©iStockphoto.com/Daniel Timiraos

A GRAFTON man, 68, has been killed after he was hit by a car driven by an allegedly drunk P-plate driver on Summerland Way, Koolkhan, yesterday morning.

The deceased, a well-known local cyclist, was riding southbound near the Koolkhan railway crossing when the crash took place about 7.10am.

Police and emergency services responded to the collision but the man died at the scene before their arrival.

The 19-year-old male driver of the white Toyota Hilux subsequently blew a blood alcohol reading of 0.125, police said.

It is believed the driver was on his way to work at the time.

The horrific crash scene saw debris, including riding shoes, bicycle parts and clothing, scattered over 30 metres.

The driver was taken to Grafton Base Hospital for a blood and urine test before he was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death and drive with mid-range PCA at Grafton Base Hospital.

The young man had his P1 license suspended on the spot and was granted conditional bail to appear at Grafton Local Court on Monday, August 24.

It is believed the victim used the Summerland Way to exercise regularly and was well-known and well-liked in the community.

His name has not been released by police.

A crime scene was established by police from Coffs/Clarence Local Area Command, with officers from Ballina Crash Investigation Unit investigating the circumstances surrounding the collision.

Police are appealing for witnesses to contact Ballina Crash Investigation Unit on (02) 6681 8618 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

A report is being prepared for the coroner.

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