A British cyclist was killed in a head-on collision this weekend during a road race in England while reportedly trying to get to the front of the race according to the Associated Press.
Junior Heffernan, 23, was on the second lap of the 66-mile Severn Bridge Road Race on Sunday in South Gloucestershire when he hit a vehicle going at a high speed. He died shortly after due to injuries suffered in the collusion according to Cycling News.
The ten-lap race was stopped after the crash according to the Associated Press.
"This is a tragedy which will profoundly sadden everyone associated with cycling in this country," said British Cycling president Brian Cookson according to Cycling News. "My thoughts are with Junior's family and with his friends."
The Severn Bridge race was the first race Heffernan was riding as a member of Team Herbalife-Leisure Lakes.
British officials have yet to announced any further details on the crash, but eye witnesses stated Heffernan was attempting to pass the peloton (the pack of riders) when the crash occurred.
Aust Parish Council chairman Mike Hawkins, who lives near where the crash took place, stated that he first heard of the crash when police shut the road down.
"They shut the road just below us, below Taylor's Farm. I would guess it was from 1.30pm on," Hawkins said according to the Gazette. "It didn't reopen until quite late. My wife saw an ambulance depart."
"We are seeking witnesses following a fatal road traffic collision in South Gloucestershire, in which a cyclist died," said a spokesman for the race according to the Gazette. "Despite being given treatment the cyclist was later declared dead at the scene. We would like to hear from anyone who was in the area at the time of the incident who may have information to help our enquiries. "
Anyone with information should contact the collision investigation unit on the force number 101 or online via www.avonandsomerset.police.uk/contact/crime_reporting
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