Triathlete Craig Leggett remembered as ‘true gentleman’ after fatal hit-and-run

A beloved Newcastle triathlete known to mates as ‘Leggo’ has died from horrific injuries sustained in an alleged hit-and-run, with police charging a 40-year-old man.

A 40-year-old man was arrested for the alleged hit-and-run - istock

The triathlon community in Newcastle are in mourning and paying tribute to a “true gentleman” after he was fatally struck in an alleged hit and run, with a 40-year-old man now charged.

Newcastle Triathlon Club member Craig Leggett - affectionately known as Leggo - was out for a ride at around 11am on December 14 before being in a collision with an SUV at the intersection of the Pacific Highway Awabakal Dr at Nords Wharfs.

The 42-year-old was treated by paramedics before being taken to John Hunter Hospital in a critical condition but sadly died of his injuries on Monday.

Police allege the car - a Toyota FJ Cruiser - failed to stop following the collision.

Following an investigation by the Crash Investigation Unit police arrested a 40-year-old man at an address on Rusty Ln, Branxton where a Toyota FJ Cruiser was seized for forensic examination.

Newcastle Triathlon Club Member Craig Leggett died when he was out for a ride at Nords Wharf on Sunday December 14. A man has now been charged after the alleged hit-and-run. Facebook

He was taken to Cessnock Police Station where he was charged with dangerous driving occasioning death-drive manner dangerous and negligent driving (occasioning death).

He was granted conditional bail to appear at Belmont Local Court on January 14.

Mr Leggett’s death has devastated the local sporting community, some taking to social media to pay tribute to the 42-year-old.

“Absolutely devastating. A true gentleman and the kindest of humans, a huge loss to this world, RIP leggo, you will never be forgotten,” a friend commented on Facebook.

Another wrote: “U were truly a gentleman a great triathlete and had a bloody awesome smile (sic), I’m gunna miss out there while racing and in life. Rest easy brother.”

The Newcastle Triathlon Club also posted to their Facebook page following the incident and sent their thoughts and prayers to their members and his family.

Originally published as Triathlete Craig Leggett remembered as ‘true gentleman’ after fatal hit-and-run