Drug driver set to be sentenced over fatal cyclist crash in Coffs Harbour

The Coffs Harbour man pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, causing the tragic death of a popular cyclist and seriously injuring a second in April last year.

A man has pleaded guilty to charges in relation to the tragic incident which took place north of Coffs Harbour last year.

More than a year on, a Coffs Coast man who hit and killed a cyclist and seriously injured another has pleaded guilty to dangerous driving.

David James Hills appeared in Coffs Harbour Local Court on Tuesday, where he pleaded guilty to charges related to the tragic death of popular cyclist and handyman Phillip Almond.

He also pleaded guilty to causing grievous bodily harm to fellow cyclist and local business owner Duncan Elliot.

Police said the men, who were members of the Coffs Harbour Cycle Club, were cycling in a group along Central Bucca Rd on the morning of April 15 last year when they were struck by Hills’ ute which was turning into a driveway.

The men, both aged 47, were treated on scene for multiple injuries before Mr Almond was taken to Gold Coast University Hospital in a critical condition, and Mr Elliot to John Hunter Hospital in a serious but stable condition. Mr Almond tragically succumbed to his injuries a few days later.

Duncan Elliott and Phillip Almond in a picture from the Coffs Harbour Cycle Club Facebook page.

Following investigations, police charged Hills with a range of driving offences in August last year.

In court this week he formally entered guilty pleas to dangerous driving causing death, dangerous driving causing grievous bodily harm, drug driving, and not complying with the conditions of his licence.

Hills was also initially facing two negligent driving charges however these were withdrawn and dismissed.

Magistrate Ian Rodgers referred the case to the District Court for sentencing. Hills will have his first appearance in the Coffs Harbour District Court on September 1, where a date will be set for sentence.

Community members were left heartbroken by Mr Almond’s passing, and tributes quickly flooded in for the well-known Emerald Beach local. In a touching tribute submitted to The Advocate, he was described as a talented and passionate cyclist who had received a number of accolades for his natural ability.