Driver charged over cyclist death at Henley Beach – SA’s first road death of 2021

A cyclist frantically tried to save a fellow rider after a sickening collision at Henley Beach.

A driver has been charged over this crash, which killed a cyclist at Henley Beach. Picture: Tricia Watkinson

A driver has been charged over the death of a cyclist at Henley Beach in South Australia’s first road fatality of 2021.

The cyclist and the car collided on Seaview Road just before 7.30am on New Year’s Day.

A 60-year-old Brighton man who was riding the bicycle died at the scene.

The driver of the car – a Grange man, 51 – was taken to Royal Adelaide Hospital, where he was assessed.

Next door neighbour Stuart Law came outside after hearing a loud bang, to find another cyclist performing CPR on the injured man.

“I was lying in bed and heard a loud bang, I thought the kids had slammed the door shut,” he said.

“I could see them doing CPR and yell out that he’s not breathing.”

Police at the scene of the first fatal crash of 2021, where a cyclist died after colliding with a car at Henley Beach. Picture: Tricia Watkinson

The driver of this car has been charged over the death. Picture: Tricia Watkinson

Mr Law added that the “shocking” event was dealt with well by emergency services and pedestrians, and the road is a busy thoroughfare for cyclists.

Major Crash investigators arrested the driver a short time later and took him to the City Watch House, charging him with causing death by dangerous driving and aggravated careless driving.

The man was granted police bail to appear in the Port Adelaide Magistrates Court at a later date.

Road Safety Minister Vincent Tarzia said the “tragic” incident was an untimely reminder to be extra vigilant on the road.

“This is an absolutely tragic way to start the new year for this family,” he said.

“Our hearts, sincere thoughts, prayers and condolences go out to the family of the person involved.”

The car also crashed into a Stobie pole. Picture: Tricia Watkinson

The man’s death is the first life lost on SA roads in 2021. There were 95 fatalities last year.

Police revealed that almost three out of every five deaths in 2020 were caused by distraction, which has risen to record levels.