A 20-something cyclist is in a life-threatening condition after a serious crash involving a van on New Oxford Street this morning (Saturday, April 12), prompting a major emergency response and road closures in one of Central London’s busiest areas.
Emergency services rushed to the scene shortly before 11am, following reports that a van had collided with a cyclist at the junction of Tottenham Court Road. The Metropolitan Police confirmed that a man has been arrested on suspicion of causing injury by careless driving and remains in custody.
Police Investigation Underway
A spokesperson for the Met Police said:
“A man has been arrested and remains in custody on suspicion of causing injuries by careless driving after a van struck a cyclist in New Oxford Street at 10:59am on Saturday, April 12.
The cyclist, a man in his 20s, was treated at the scene by the London Ambulance Service and taken to hospital where he remains in a life-threatening condition.”
Major Disruption in Central London
New Oxford Street has been taped off from Tottenham Court Road to Bloomsbury Street and Shaftesbury Avenue since the crash. As of 5pm, the road remains closed to all traffic, with police collision investigators still at the scene.
The closure has caused severe traffic delays and impacted multiple bus routes, including 8, 14, 19, 24, 29, 38, 55, 73, 98, 176, 188, and 390, many of which are being diverted or cut short.
Transport for London (TfL) has advised passengers to check live updates and allow extra time for their journeys.
Public Response and Next Steps
Bystanders described a heavy emergency presence, with several police vehicles blocking the road and officers redirecting pedestrians. Many commuters expressed concern and frustration over the disruption, but most were sympathetic after hearing the severity of the cyclist’s injuries.
The London Ambulance Service is expected to issue a statement shortly.
Police are urging anyone who witnessed the collision or has dashcam footage to come forward.
Call 101 and quote reference 44250160063.
