Two spectators were killed and six others injured on Sunday 22 February by a Tour du Rwanda publicity vehicle when it veered off the road while driving ahead of the bike race.
According to Rwanda Dispatch a vehicle in the Stage 1 publicity caravan reportedly drove off the road and crashed into a large group of spectators waiting to cheer on the cyclists in the town of Gabiro.
Two spectators died at the scene, with six others rushed to hospital for emergency medical care.
Often described as a “big carnival party on wheels,” publicity caravans are hugely popular with cycling fans, bringing loud music and creative vehicles advertising various brands to the race route just ahead of the cyclists.
In the wake of the tragic crash Rwanada Cycling Federation Vice President Bigango Valentin indicated that stricter oversight of the publicity caravan will be required going forward, specifically mandatory alcohol testing of all caravan drivers.
“Previously, some drivers were not tested. With the new measures, no one is exempt. We are firm on ensuring that every driver undergoes testing to guarantee road safety,” Valentin told The New Times.
The Rwanda National Police have not released crash details or commented if alcohol was involved.
The tragic incident did not affect Tour du Rwanda results, with Israel’s Itamar Einhorn (NSN Cycling Team) winning the opening stage of the week-long competition.
Photo Credit: Flickr/tourdurwanda
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