Dead biker named by police

5:29pm Tuesday 27th November 2007

Comments (13)   Have your say »

A 48-YEAR-OLD motorcyclist who died after colliding with a car has been named.

Robert Cox was riding his gold Honda bike when he lost control and slid into a red or orange R-reg Fiat Punto as it pulled out of Ravens Way, Eltham.

He was taken to Lewisham Hospital after the incident which took place at 4.50pm on November 20 but he died later that evening.

A post-mortem held on November 22 found that he died of internal injuries and an inquest was opened and adjourned today (November 27) at Greenwich Coroner's Court.

Police are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed the collision or the events which led up to it.

They are particularly keen to trace bikers who they believe were riding closely behind Mr Cox.

Sergeant Simon Seeley, who is leading the investigation, said: "It is believed that one of these two motorcyclists narrowly missed the collision and, for whatever reason, did not stop.

"The third, travelling behind Robert, is believed to have stopped at the scene but did not wait and give his details to police.

"This third motorcyclist was wearing a red crash helmet and fluorescent over-jacket.

"This collision happened in the rush hour on a busy commuter route; it is likely the motorcyclists referred to are regular users of the road.

"They may have witnessed the collision but not realised the severity of the injuries suffered.

"It is unusual for a motorcyclist not to stop and assist when they see another motorcyclist in trouble.

"Any information these individuals may be able to provide will be of great importance in our efforts to reconstruct the circumstances of the collision."

Call the collision investigation unit at Catford on 020 8285 1574 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.

• If you knew Mr Cox and would like to post a tribute or message of condolence add your comments below.