By Rebecca Peppiatt
Police have charged a 36-year-old man from South Australia with manslaughter over the death of a cyclist taking part in an endurance ride on Thursday.
Chris Barker, 62 died at the scene after being hit by what police believe to be a truck travelling along the Eyre Highway around 5.30am.
Chris Barker was taking part in the Indian Pacific Wheel Ride when he died after being struck by a vehicle on Thursday.
A second cyclist was also hit a few hours later on the same road and was taken to Royal Perth Hospital with serious injuries. No charges have been laid in relation to that incident.
The riders were taking part in the controversial Indian Pacific Wheel Ride, an unofficial event that runs across Australia from Fremantle to Sydney.
Riders are unsupported on the 5500-kilometre journey and there is no prize money.
The event was suspended in 2017 after the death of another rider, Mike Hall.
Barker’s son paid tribute to Barker online, saying his father died “doing something that he loved.”
“I can’t express how sad today is,” Aiden Barker said.
“Thanks for the respect regarding today’s incident, I can’t thank you enough.
“I’ve never heard dad talk so much about this one event in my life, today my family lost a great person. My heart is broken.”
The South Australian man will appear in Perth Magistrates Court on Saturday.
Major Crash Investigation Section officers are appealing for any witnesses to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperswa.com.au.
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