Retired scientist Oliver Robinson dies in cycling event on Dartmoor, inquest opened

A retired researcher from Cornwall tragically lost his life while taking part in an organized bike ride, details have been shared at an inquest. Oliver Robinson was found unresponsive in a ditch on the B3212 near Leeper Cross on Dartmoor on 12 May 2024.

An inquest into his death was opened at Exeter Coroner’s Court. The court heard the 56-year-old, from Launceston, died at around 4.40pm at the scene where he was found, despite the efforts of emergency services.

Senior Coroner Philip Spinney said: “The circumstances of death are 12 May 2024, Oliver was participating in an organized sporting cycle ride on Dartmoor. He was found by a bicyclist on the side of the road in a ditch unresponsive.

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“Despite medical attention at the scene from paramedics and the air ambulance, Oliver was pronounced dead at the scene. “An autopsy has been completed and a medical cause of death has not yet been determined.

“An investigation is required to establish the circumstances surrounding the death. There are no suspicious circumstances.”

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Following the death of Oliver, who was originally from Taunton in Somerset, police reported that a cyclist had died after suffering serious head injuries on Shapley Common, near Moretonhampstead. A spokesman for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “Police were called to reports of a road traffic collision involving a bicycle on the B3212 on Shapley Common, near North Bovey, Moretonhampstead, at around 3.40pm on Sunday 12 May. South West Ambulance Service, Devon Air Ambulance and Devon and Cornwall Police attended the incident,” reports Devon Live.

“A 56-year-old pedal cyclist was found in the doorway. Despite the efforts of those present, he was later pronounced dead at the scene.

“His next of kin have been informed. The B3212 between Challacombe Cross and Jurston Cross was closed while police investigated this collision. The road was reopened around 19:20”.

A thorough investigation will be conducted at a future date.

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