An cyclist who went out for a ride has been found dead by a roadside. And now an investigation is underway, with third party involvement suspected. David Helliwell's death is currently being classed as a road traffic incident.
Cyclist David Helliwell found dead after going on bike ride
A criminal investigation is underway after a cyclist was found dead at the side of the road.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland is appealing for anyone with information to come forward.
That appeal relates to the mystery death of 55-year-old David Helliwell. He died after going out cycling on Thursday evening.
Police investigating his death do not know how he died, but a post mortem exam should help that element of the inquiry.
However, Mr Helliwell’s death is being treated as a road traffic fatality. He died while cycling on the Drumnamether Road, Tandragee, in Co Armagh.
Advertisement
The deceased man’s family said whether he died suddenly or perhaps lost his life in a hit and run, they need to know the truth.
Mr Helliwell’s wife Wendy spoke to Q Radio in the North. She made an emotional appeal for information.
"We loved each other so much and I am lost without him," she said, describing his death as “an evil dream”.
"My husband was a lovely man who gave a lot for the community,” she added.
Related News
“He’d worked in a home for mentally and physically handicapped adults - he was caring.
"He was a great man for the children in my household. He raised them beautifully he had time for them, he talked to them.
"We don't know yet whether it was a hit and run, an accident or a sudden death. We are still waiting for post-mortem results.
"However, anybody who knows anything please, please call the police. Put us out of our misery; we would love to know."
Inspector Leslie Badger said the incident occurred shortly after 7:30pm.
“I am appealing to anyone who was travelling on the Drumnamether Road around this time and who witnessed anything to contact local officers on 101,” he said.
“I am also appealing to anyone who may have a dash cam fitted in their vehicle to check their footage.”
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon, Alderman Gareth Wilson said the local community had the Helliwell family in their thoughts.
“I have met the family a few times and speaking to David’s wife Wendy today it is just so difficult and sad what has happened; it’s so traumatic for them all,” he said.
“The family are all keen cyclists and it is such a shock that David has passed away.
“On behalf of everyone in the borough I sympathise with the Helliwells at this time.”
Topics
