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16-year-old cyclist is killed in Christmas Eve collision
Justin Davenport, Crime Correspondent30.12.08
TWO cyclists - one a 16-year-old girl - died in accidents on Christmas Eve, police said today.
Natalie Lee and a 24-year-old friend were riding on the same bicycle in Dagenham when they were hit by a black 4X4 Jeep at about 4.45pm in Rainham Road North, Dagenham.
The two friends were knocked to the ground and Natalie was then struck by a Ford Fiesta car which was behind the Jeep.
Natalie, from Dagenham, died of head injuries shortly after her arrival in hospital. Her friend suffered minor injuries. In a separate accident Malcolm Boswell, 66, died after he was knocked off his bike in a hit-and-run collision in Enfield involving a blue Land Rover Discovery.
Mr Boswell was cycling towards his home in Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire, when he was hit.
A 69-year-old man was later arrested in Enfield on suspicion of failing to stop after a collision. Police seized a 4x4 Discovery and the man was bailed pending further inquiries.
Scotland Yard today appealed for any witnesses to either of the accidents to contact the Collision Investigation Unit at Chadwell Heath Traffic Garage on 020 8597 4874.
Reader views (4)
Dear Natalie,
My heart goes out to you and your family, I had to go down the road that was blocked by the police on day of the accident, I live in north west London but my girlfriend lives near the Eastbrook, due to the accident, I was diverted and later heard what had happened, the thought of the gifts waiting for you to open them and how your family must be feeling, made me unable to enjoy my Christmas this year. I didnt want to smile because it made me feel selfish, I didnt know you but have a special place in my heart for you and your family, god bless you Natalie.
Karl xxx
- Karl Warren, Dagenham & Ruislip
The wreck with the two riders on one bicycle was at 4:45 PM lights and/or reflectors would have been useless at that time as the sun was still above the horizon for almost an hour after the wreck.
- Opus, Garland TX, USA
Unfortumately Andy makes the presumption that the girls on the bike were to blame for the accident-this is wrong and deeply insensitive to the family of the deceased, nobody can draw conclusions until the police have completed their enquiries. Sadly a cycle helmet, and indeed lights, are no protection against the reckless driving-including speeding-which drivers get away with on London's streets every day.
- Oliver Mehmet, Finchley, London
So were the two girls riding on a bike for one also riding with no lights on, whilst wearing no reflective clothing or helmets? If not I feel dreadfully sorry for the drivers of the cars involved
- Andy, London
