Young Cyclist in Life-Threatening Condition After New Oxford Street Smash
A 20-something cyclist is fighting for life after a brutal collision with a van on New Oxford Street this morning (Saturday, April 12). The crash sparked a massive emergency response and shut down a key Central London artery.
Van Hits Cyclist on Busy Central London Road
Emergency crews rushed to the scene just before 11am following reports that a van struck a cyclist at the Tottenham Court Road junction. The Metropolitan Police confirmed a man has been arrested on suspicion of causing injury by careless driving and is currently in custody.
“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 Road Closures and Chaos on London’s Streets
New Oxford Street has been cordoned off from Tottenham Court Road to Bloomsbury Street and Shaftesbury Avenue since the crash. The road remains closed to all traffic as of 5pm with collision investigators still working on scene.
The closure has triggered severe traffic jams and thrown bus routes into disarray. Routes 8, 14, 19, 24, 29, 38, 55, 73, 98, 176, 188, and 390 are being diverted or cut short. Transport for London (TfL) urges passengers to check live updates and factor in extra travel time.
Police Appeal for Witnesses as Investigation Continues
Witnesses report a heavy police presence with officers directing pedestrians and blocking roads. While commuters express frustration over the disruption, many showed sympathy for the injured cyclist.
The London Ambulance Service is expected to release a statement soon.
Police are appealing for anyone who saw the crash or has dashcam footage to come forward. Call 101 and quote reference 44250160063.