Witness wanted: Passenger flees after motorbike rider dies in collision with cyclist on Wigan canal towpath

FATAL COLLISION: Rider dies in Leigh

By Dean Wilkins

A motorbike rider died after colliding with cyclist on a canal towpath in Wigan yesterday – and police are appealing for a key witness.

The 19-year-old man was taken to hospital where he was pronounced dead and the cyclist suffered minor arm injuries.

The rider of the motorbike had a pillion passenger who left the scene before police arrived at 4pm and officers are trying to trace them.

Police Constable Paul Hailwood said: "We are in the early stages of this investigation and trained officers are offered supporting to the man’s family.

"We understand that there was a pillion passenger who left the scene and I would like to appeal to that individual to make contact with us as possible.

"Anyone who may have witnessed this incident is asked to call us."

Officers are still keen to speak to witnesses and anyone with information is asked to call police on 0161 856 4742.

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