Tragedy Witness appeal after biker dies in Portway collision with HGV
POLICE have appealed for witnesses after a motorcyclist died in a collision with an HGV on one of the main routes into Bristol.
The accident happened on the southbound side of the A4 Portway near Sea Mills at about 5.45am yesterday morning.
The motorcyclist sustained significant injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, Avon and Somerset Police said.
The Portway was shut in both directions from Sylvan Way to Bridge Valley Road and remained closed for most of the day.
Police advised motorists to avoid the area and use alternative routes into and out of the city. The road was also closed to pedestrians.
Police appealed for any witnesses who had not yet spoken to them to get in contact.
Police confirmed at lunchtime that the male motorcyclist had suffered significant injuries. They said he was pronounced dead at the scene and his next of kin had been informed.
The road, which links Avonmouth and Bristol, was shut from the A4162 at Sylvan Way, Sea Mills, to the A4176 Bridge Valley Road at Clifton Downs.
Specialist collision investigators were at the scene for much of the day.
Avon Fire and Rescue Service said: “Crews from Avonmouth, Southmead, Temple and Pill were called to reports of a road traffic collision on The Portway, Sea Mills at 5.53am.
“Firefighters provided heavy rescue equipment to support police and ambulance colleagues at the scene.
“Crews stood down and left the scene at approximately 9am. The road remains closed and other emergency services remain on the scene.”
Congestion was reported in the city centre, and on roads out to Abbots Leigh, Ashton, Clifton Down and all surrounding routes through Bristol.
Witnesses to the accident can contact Avon and Somerset Police by calling 101 and giving the reference number 5221 233 777.