Rangeway cyclist investigation ruled accidental fall

An investigation into what happened to a 22-year-old Geraldton man who was discovered unconscious by the side of a major road has concluded, with police deeming the incident an accident.

Jarod Leigh Phillips was rushed to hospital and placed in an induced coma after an early morning dog walker found the man injured on April 27 near the intersection of Cypress Street and Eastward Road in Rangeway.

The scene was immediately locked down by police and declared a protected forensic area as a thorough investigation into the incident was launched.

This week, acting Det Sgt Jared Pargnell closed the case, ruling the evidence overwhelmingly pointed to an accident with “no element of criminality”.

“The injuries to his face and leg were deemed consistent with a fall from his bike,” he said.

“He’s fallen from bike, hitting his head and become disconcerted. Mr Phillips has then wandered away from the crash location before he was overcome and fell into the ditch.”

Mr Phillips then spent around 12 hours lying unconscious before his discovery.

Last week his family issued a plea for help locating his distinct 20-year-old Apollo-brand bike believing it was the “key” to learning what happened to him.

Witness came forward, telling police they had last seen him riding close to the area he was found around 7.30pm that night.

The bike was located on Rifle Range Road late last week with damage consistent with a crash.

The injuries to his face and leg were deemed consistent with a fall from his bike,

“There was scratches to the frame and seat and the bake cables had snapped,” acting Det Sgt Pragnell said. “It was not too far from where he was found.”

Mr Phillips, who was later flown to Royal Perth Hospital in a critical condition, was discharged late on Wednesday night having made a speedy recovery in intensive care.

Acting Det Sgt Pragnell said he was recovering well and had no ongoing injuries.

“He’s got some bruising and soreness but he’s fine,” he said. “He has no memory of what happened but it’s a happy outcome.”