Cyclist death riddle: witness plea after man who fell off bike found dead the next day (From Bournemouth Echo)

Cyclist death riddle: witness plea after man who fell off bike found dead the next day

9:01am Tuesday 24th July 2012 in News By Steven Smith

POLICE are appealing for help to solve the mysterious sudden death of a Bournemouth cyclist.

Officers said yesterday that Thomas Harris, 32, from Boscombe , fell off his bike at the top of Manor zigzag path, off Boscombe Overcliff Drive, at around 6pm last Tuesday, July 17.

He was found dead at an address in the town the following morning.

PC Mark Palmer of Dorset Police road traffic unit, said: “Thomas is believed to have fallen off his pushbike while he was riding on a pedestrian area of the Overcliff.

“Emergency services were not contacted at the time – it is thought that Thomas did not realise the seriousness of his injuries.

“He was sadly found dead the following morning.”

The coroner was notified and an inquest into Thomas’ death, which is not being treated as suspicious, has been opened and adjourned for identification.

Thomas is described by police as a white man, approximately six feet tall, of medium build, unshaven, with light brown hair.

PC Palmer added: “The weather was pleasant that evening and it is possible that a number of people may have been in the area.

“We would like to speak to anyone who may have seen this man fall off his bike or has any information that will help us ascertain exactly what happened.

“Ultimately, we are trying to establish whether Thomas died as a result of falling off his bike, or from a medical condition.”

Witnesses to Thomas’ fall, or anyone with information, should call Dorset Police in confidence on 101, quoting incident number 18:114.

Alternatively, call the free and anonymous Crimestoppers line on 0800 555 111.

Comments have been left open to allow you to leave your tributes to Thomas Harris.