Etape Loch Ness cyclist dies following crash with BMW in Inverness’s Island Bank Road; Police Scotland officers in the Highlands have appealed for witnesses

A cyclist taking part in the annual Etape Loch Ness sportive has died after their bike and a BMW collided near the event’s finish area in Inverness, police have confirmed.

Officers have appealed for witnesses to come forward after the 49-year-old male cyclist and a BMW 120 M Sport collided on Island Bank Road at around 12.10pm on Sunday.

The cyclist was taken to Raigmore Hospital but died a short time later.

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

Following the collision, the road was closed to allow for crash investigations to take place and it reopened around 6pm.

Officers added that enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of the crash.

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 urged to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting ‘reference number 1334 of April 27’.

Organisers of Etape Loch Ness said they were “devastated” by the news of the man’s sad passing.

They added that 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.”