Cyclist taking part in Loch Ness Etape event dies after being hit by car

A cyclist has died after being hit by a car while taking part in a mass cycling event in Inverness.

The 49-year-old man was hit by a BMW 120 M Sport vehicle on Island Bank Road during the Loch Ness Etape event around 12.10pm on Sunday.

Organisers said the man was hit next to the event area and received “immediate medical attention”.

However, he passed away at Raigmore Hospital a short time later.

Those taking part in the Etape follow a 66-mile route around Loch Ness on “traffic-free” roads.

The male driver and the female passenger of the car were not injured.

The road was closed to allow for crash investigations to take place before reopening around 6pm.

A statement from the event said: “It is with great sadness that we confirm a fatality occurred during yesterday’s Etape Loch Ness event.

“A 49-year-old man was involved in a collision with a vehicle next to the event area in Inverness shortly after midday.

“Despite receiving immediate medical attention from emergency services, he sadly died later in hospital.”

Etape Loch Ness event director, Malcolm Sutherland said: “We are truly devastated by the news and our heartfelt thoughts are with the rider’s family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

“We are offering them our full support, and also supporting those affected at the event.

“We are working closely with Police Scotland and relevant authorities as they carry out a full investigation.

“We ask that the privacy of those involved is respected, and we echo Police Scotland’s appeal for any witnesses to call 101, quoting reference number 1334 of April 27.”

Sergeant Lewis Macleod of Police Scotland’s Road Policing Unit, said: “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the deceased at this difficult time.

“I would urge anyone who may have witnessed the crash and has not already spoken to police to please get in touch with us.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference number 1334 of April 27.