Cycle Tour deaths to be probed

POLICE have launched an investigation into three separate deaths, two of them cyclists and the other a marshal, during Sunday’s Cape Town Cycle Tour.

Police spokesperson André Traut said two cases of culpable homicide were being investigated, while an inquest would also be held. The marshal died in hospital.

“An inquest will be held into the circumstances surrounding the death of a 69-year-old participant,” Traut said.

A case of culpable homicide has been opened following the death of a 41-year-old man who was also a participant and an unidentified marshal, who also died during the tour.”

The marshal was stationed on an S-bend after the Llandudno turn-off during the event.

The organisers said the circumstances surrounding the incident were unclear and were being investigated with the assistance of the police.

Cape Town Cycle Tour marketing, media and sponsorship director David Bellairs hailed this year’s event a success, but was saddened that three families were in mourning.

“One cyclist succumbed to his injuries at the scene of a pile-up with 20 other cyclists at the bottom of Wynberg Hill, while another is suspected to have had a heart attack going up the hill at Smitswinkel Bay.

“We are awaiting confirmation regarding the Rotary Club marshal who died late yesterday afternoon,” said Bellairs.

It was extremely tough for both the organisers and the staff when incidents of this nature occurred, he added.

“I want to assure everyone that all measures are being taken to ensure the safety of participants and marshals on the route.

“In my 28 years with the Cycle Tour, there have been only two trauma-related deaths.”