A sight- and hearing-impaired man who was hit by a motorcyclist on a pedestrian crossing in Rotorua over the weekend, with the rider fleeing the scene, has died in hospital.
The motorcyclist allegedly overtook a stationary vehicle and struck the 24-year-old pedestrian as he was crossing Edmund Rd in Mangakakahi at around 2.15pm on Sunday.
Police said the rider then performed a U-turn, rode back towards the crossing, and fled the scene without stopping or checking on the victim.
The pedestrian was airlifted to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition. Edmund Rd was closed while emergency services attended.
Detective Sergeant Phil Wilkinson today said the man died in hospital yesterday surrounded by his family.
“Investigators are continuing to comb through evidence and information provided by the public, and urge anyone with information who has not yet contacted us to please do so.”
Additional images of the motorcyclist were released by police today in the hopes community members would recognise them and contact police.
Wilkinson said the motorbike was believed to have been damaged in the crash, specifically the front fairing.
“Family, friends, neighbours will notice a difference in the motorbike with either damage, changes to the bike or a motorbike that had previously been ridden in the street is now not being seen in the neighbourhood.
“If you are the rider or know who the rider is, please get in touch with us – do the right thing. The events of this incident will be weighing heavily on the rider’s mind. It is important that they come forward and speak to us.”
Wilkinson said the community response and information provided had been “positive”.
“As the man’s family are dealing with the death of their loved one, we ask that any information is sent to police to ensure the family can grieve in private.”
Anyone with relevant information should contact police on 105.
