Cyclist dies following crash during Etape Loch Ness in Inverness

A 49-year-old male cyclist participating in the Etape Loch Ness event in Inverness died after a collision with a BMW 120 M Sport on Island Bank Road. The crash occurred around midday on Sunday near the event’s finish area, and despite immediate medical attention, the cyclist died shortly after being taken to Raigmore Hospital. The car's driver and passenger were not injured. Event organizers and police expressed their condolences, with the event director stating they are providing full support to the family and those affected. Authorities closed the road for several hours to investigate, and police are urging any witnesses to come forward as inquiries continue. The event, which allows cyclists to ride on traffic-free roads around Loch Ness, is Scotland’s largest closed-road cycle.