Cyclist Sentenced Over Fatal Crash That Killed Peter McCombie
Peter McCombie, 72, died after being hit by a cyclist in Bow on 3 July 2020. He passed away eight days later from serious head injuries.
Ermir Loka Jailed for Dangerous Driving
Ermir Loka, 23, from Waltham Forest, appeared at Snaresbrook Crown Court on 15 July. He was convicted of causing bodily harm by wanton and furious driving.
On 26 July, Loka received the maximum sentence of two years in prison, including time served on remand. He was found not guilty of manslaughter.
Crash Details Revealed
- Peter was walking home from work at around 5:05pm, crossing Bow Road near Addington Road.
- CCTV showed him waiting on a central island for the pedestrian light.
- A first cyclist narrowly avoided him by weaving through stationary traffic.
- Moments later, Loka ran a red light, hitting Peter and knocking him off his bike.
- Loka got back on and fled the scene. His bike was never recovered.
- Bystanders called emergency services and helped Peter, who died in hospital a week later.
Investigation and Court Battle
The Met’s Serious Collision Investigation Unit launched a full probe. Public appeals and images urged Loka to come forward. He finally surrendered to police on 28 July amid fears his illegal immigration status would be exposed.
CCTV evidence showed Loka had about eight seconds to stop at the red light but chose to speed through.
Family’s Heartbreaking Statement
“Peter’s loss has been immeasurable and has left a gap in our lives that we will never be able to fill. He was a man who loved his family, friends, and worked hard for his colleagues.”
“He was a complete gentleman, and everyone who knew him is united in grief at how he was taken from us.”
“The shock of losing him so abruptly and unnecessarily will haunt us forever. Peter had so much left to enjoy, robbed by this selfish man who fled after hitting him.”
“Leaving Peter injured in a busy road showed cowardice beyond contempt. The anger we feel is beyond words, and we cannot bear to say his name.”
“We are glad the jury saw through his lies and that he has been convicted.”
Detective’s Final Words
“Peter was a fit and active man, still working past retirement, loved by family and friends. My sympathies are with them.”
“Loka’s actions were reckless, dangerous, and entirely avoidable. Had he slowed down at the red light, none of this would have happened.”
