Footscray crash claims cyclist in fatal afternoon crash

In a horror 12 hour stretch on Melbourne roads, three people have been killed, including a cyclist who was struck by a truck.

Police are investigating a fatal crash in Footscray

High-risk behaviour and simple mistakes are being blamed for the carnage on Melbourne roads, with three people killed in a deadly 12 hour period.

A cyclist riding along Footscray Rd near the Dock Link Rd intersection just before 12.30pm on Thursday died after being struck by a truck driver

The cyclist, whose identity is yet to be confirmed, died at the scene.

The male truck driver stopped at the scene and assisted police before being taken to Western Health Footscray for assessment.

Earlier, a 78-year-old man died following a car crash in Pascoe Vale which also left a Strathmore woman with minor injuries, while a motorcyclist died after a collision with a truck in Keilor East.

It brings the 2023 road toll to 34, a 41 per cent increase on the 24 lives lost at this time last year.

The West Melbourne collision sparked lengthy traffic delays in the area, with Footscray Rd down to one lane under the direction of police, the Department of Transport said.

Motorists have been urged to instead use Dynon Rd for travel between the CBD and Footscray.

Acting Assistant Commissioner for Road Policing Justin Goldsmith said high risk behaviour was contributing to the soaring death toll, as well as mistakes such as people going through stop signs or failing to give way.

“We’re seeing really high speeds and sometimes it’s a combination of a number of high risk factors (like) not wearing a seatbelt, people impaired by alcohol and drugs, these are things that are really concerning for us.

“We’ve already experienced far too much trauma this year and it’s up to the Victorian community to turn this around.

“Everyone needs to make road safety a priority every time they get behind the wheel.”

Anyone who witnessed the collision, has dashcam/CCTV footage or information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au