Paul White: Former SA Police assistant commissioner dies Glen Osmond cycling collision

Tributes are being paid to former SA Police assistant commissioner Paul White, who died on Sunday in a shocking cycling crash in Glen Osmond.

Former SA Police assistant commissioner Paul White, the officer credited with launching the fight against the state’s bikie gangs, has been killed in a cycling collision at Glen Osmond.

Mr White, who went on to become Northern Territory police commissioner, died at the scene of the crash where he was riding his bike at the intersection of Portrush Rd and Myrona Ave, at Glen Osmond, on Sunday morning.

Former SA Police Assistant Commissioner Paul White.

NT Acting Commissioner and chief executive Murray Smalpage confirmed Mr White’s death.

“It is with great sadness we advise the death of former Northern Territory Police Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services, Mr Paul White,” his statement said.

“Mr White died following a motor vehicle collision in Glen Osmond, South Australia earlier today (Sunday).

“Mr White retired from the Northern Territory Police, Fire and Emergency Services in October 2009, following almost eight years of service in the role.

“Mr White joined South Australia Police as a cadet in 1968, and attained the rank of assistant commissioner before commencing his appointment with the Northern Territory.

“We extend our deepest sympathy to Mr White’s family and friends.”

SAPOL and Police Minister Joe Szakacs declined to comment.

Former SA assistant police commissioner Paul White, who died at the scene of a bike riding collision with a car at Glen Osmond on Sunday.

The widely respected officer was appointed NT police commissioner in December 2001 after a 34-year career with South Australia Police, working in uniform general duties, criminal investigation, criminal intelligence and training and education.

As SAPOL assistant commissioner in charge of crime command he was responsible for launching the fight against bikie gangs in this state.

He held a Bachelor of Arts with first class honours and was awarded the Australian Police Medal for distinguished service in 2000.

Shortly after his appointment as NT police commissioner he told the Sunday Mail his priorities included discovering the truth about the infamous Falconio case.

“We have the offender’s DNA and we have some descriptions and other evidence,’’ he said in 2002.

“I have no doubt that ultimately we will bring this person to justice. It is just a matter of time.’’

Police and emergency services at the scene of the crash on Portrush Rd. Picture: Todd Lewis

The crash happened as the TDU got under way on Sunday. Picture: Tim de Waele/Getty Images

Bradley John Murdoch was later sentenced to life imprisonment for the July 2001 murder of English backpacker Peter Falconio.

After serving as NT police commissioner Mr White returned to SA to serve as the liquor and gambling commissioner.

Police and emergency services were called to the intersection of Portrush Rd and Myrona Ave, at Glen Osmond, at 10.25am on Sunday after reports a male cyclist had crashed and suffered serious injuries.

A 61-year-old car driver from St Georges was assisting police with investigation into the crash. The man’s vehicle was towed from the scene for examination.

Graeme Beaver said he was one of the first to arrive on the scene.

“My fiancee and I were just driving down and we saw a cyclist on the road with people responding,” he said.

“She jumped off and ran out to help because she’s a nurse. When the paramedics and doctors were here my partner stepped away. All the responders and people that helped out in this instance have done an amazing job.”

Anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage that may assist the investigation is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000