In a tragic incident that shook the island of Ibiza, a driver fatally struck cyclist Bernat Ribas and callously fled the scene. Ribas, a well-known 49-year-old Ibizan sportsman, met with the unfortunate accident on the Camí de Benimussa. The hit-and-run perpetrator is believed to have been driving an older model black convertible Jeep Wrangler with either British or Dutch license plates. Shockingly, after running over Ribas, the driver abandoned him on the asphalt, leaving him to fend for himself.
Investigations into this fatal hit-and-run are currently underway by the Guardia Civil. The cyclist lost his life yesterday afternoon on the camí de Benimussa in Sant Josep, victim to a driver who chose to flee the scene. However, the authorities have already located and recovered the vehicle involved in this tragic incident.
Bernat Ribas was not only a lorry driver but also a prominent Ibizan sportsman, highly respected and well-known on the island. He boasted an impressive track record in cycling and duathlon events and was a valued member of the Sant Antoni Master Team club. It’s worth noting that at the time of the accident, Ribas was cycling alongside another fellow cyclist, his companion during the unfortunate incident.
The incident occurred at approximately 8:00 p.m., prompting SAMU 061 to dispatch a mobile ICU to the location. Regrettably, upon arrival, the medical team could only confirm the cyclist’s demise, given the severity of his injuries, as reported by 061.
The hit-and-run driver operated an older model black convertible Jeep Wrangler, recognizable by its UK license plates. Notably, the vehicle sustained damage to the front right side, front passenger side, and front window frame during the driver’s hasty escape. Evidently, the driver collided with another vehicle and a rock while fleeing the scene, leaving behind a trail of destruction.
Promptly after being alerted, the Guardia Civil initiated a search for the perpetrator, informing the local police to assist in the investigation. Eyewitnesses came forward last night, claiming to have spotted an SUV matching the description on the road to Santa Eulària. Additionally, there were unverified reports suggesting the vehicle had been found in Platja d’en Bossa, although these claims were later refuted. At the time of writing this article, it remains uncertain whether the authorities have successfully apprehended the individual responsible for the fatal hit-and-run or if the search operation is still ongoing.
According to the press service of the City Council of Sant Josep, the deceased cyclist was a familiar figure in the municipality, residing in Sant Agustí and known to many within the community.
This tragic event has left the residents of Ibiza mourning the loss of Bernat Ribas, a respected sportsman and a valued member of the island’s athletic community. The hope now rests upon the authorities to swiftly bring the hit-and-run driver to justice, ensuring that such senseless acts of negligence and callousness are not left unpunished.
