Cyclist in 'life-threatening condition' following crash: Police issue appeal

The crash occurred on Saturday, February 27, and saw a key route in Weymouth closed in both directions for several hours.

Early police investigations suggest the man fell off his bicycle and then hit by a car. 

This is what we know so far. 

What happened? 

Dorset Police say the serious crash involving a cyclist happened between 10.10am and 10.30am in the area around A354 Rodwell Road and Buxton Road.

The crash was reported to police at 10.23am. Initial investigations by police officers suggest it 'appears that a cyclist came off his bicycle and then may have been hit by a car.' 

The cyclist, a local man, was taken to Southampton General Hospital via air ambulance in a life-threatening condition.

The road was closed until approximately 3.50pm to allow collision investigators to examine the scene.

What did police do at the scene? 

A police cordon was put in place for at least five hours between junctions for Rodwell Avenue and Longfield Road to enable collision investigators to examine the scene and understand the circumstances of the crash. 

Multiple police vehicles, including forensic investigation and collision investigation vehicles, parked along the road.

A number of police officers investigated the suspected collision site, with particular focus on items on the road. 

One police officer was seen carrying out door-to-door enquiries.

How long was the road closed? 

Police officers were at the scene for several hours. Picture: Michael Taylor

A354 Rodwell Road was closed from approximately 10.30am until 3.50pm.

The road closure also caused heavy traffic disruption in the area as motorists diverted around the A354. 

'It is not clear exactly what happened' - What has the police said about this crash? 

Police Sergeant Rhys Griffiths, of the traffic unit, said: “We have made some initial enquiries, but it is not clear exactly what happened.

“There are reports that a car may have collided with the cyclist.

"However, this has not been confirmed and I do not have any more information about the vehicle that may or may not have been involved in the incident.

“I am hoping that somebody might be able to assist with further information and I am therefore appealing for any witnesses who have not spoken to police yet to come forward.

“Also, I am very keen to hear from anyone who may have relevant dashcam or CCTV footage. The particular time frame is between 10.10am and 10.30am and the area concerned would be Rodwell Road and Buxton Road.

“Finally, I would like to thank affected motorists for their patience during the road closure. We only put closures in place when they are absolutely necessary to enable emergency services to deal with the scene safely.”

I saw what happened - what can I do? 

Anyone with information is asked to contact Dorset Police at www.dorset.police.uk, via email at scit@dorset.pnn.police.uk or by calling 101, quoting occurrence number 55210033067.

Alternatively, to stay 100 per cent anonymous, contact the independent charity Crimestoppers online at Crimestoppers-uk.org or call freephone 0800 555 111.