He was healthy, full of life, and just out for a ride when everything changed. James Sullivan, 49, was cycling through the Shepherds Hill Roundabout in Woodley, Reading, on August 29 when tragedy struck. At around 4:45 p.m. BST, he was hit by a grey Hyundai i20. Emergency services rushed to the scene, and James was taken to hospital with severe injuries. Despite the best efforts of doctors, he succumbed to his injuries days later, leaving his family, friends, and community devastated.
Police confirmed that a 24-year-old man from Slough was arrested on suspicion of careless driving. He has since been released on bail while investigations continue. Officers have appealed for witnesses, asking anyone who may have seen the collision or has dashcam footage to come forward to aid in determining the circumstances of the crash.
James’s family described him as a “kind, loving man who lived life to the fullest.” They shared that he had always been active and adventurous, with a deep love for cycling and the outdoors. “James was a son, a brother, and a friend who brought joy and laughter into every room,” the family said in a heartfelt statement. “His death has left a hole in our lives that can never be filled.”
The local cycling community has also been shaken by the tragedy, with many riders expressing sorrow over the loss of a fellow cyclist and calling for greater awareness and safety measures on roads frequently used by cyclists.As police inquiries continue, James’s loved ones are left to navigate unimaginable grief, holding on to the memories of a man whose energy, warmth, and love for life will not be forgotten. His passing serves as a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly lives can change on the road.
