The family of a man who was the victim of an alleged hit-and-run incident in Bibra Lake last week has released a statement expressing their grief over his unexpected death.
Joseph Paratore, 40, was riding his bike on North Lake Road around 5.20am on Tuesday morning when he was fatally struck by what police say was a white Toyota Prado.
Police released vision of the moments before the incident and urged the driver to come forward, later arresting 40-year-old Craig Daniel Strawbridge.
Strawbridge was arrested at his Yangebup home and his vehicle was seized. He appeared in Fremantle Magistrates Court the following day where he did not apply for bail.
Paratore was identified as a father and husband who was an avid cyclist, often taking part in charity rides and raising money for cancer research.
On Saturday his wife Sarina released a statement saying that her heart was broken, before asking for prayers.
“Our hearts are broken and grieving for the loss of Joseph Paratore,” she said.
“He was a son, a brother, a best friend, and a cycling buddy. Always there when you needed him. Loud, full of life and with the biggest heart. There are no words for this pain.
“To our family, friends and our amazing community thank you for your overwhelming love and support. Please continue to pray for us.”
Paratore was the general manager of Hope Valley business, Southern Steel WA, and the father of two young children.
“He was always there for his people; always leaned in; would go the extra mile daily to make sure people were ok. A man who loved his family, particularly his children,” a friend said.
He was a regular participant in the Maca 200 Ride for Perkins, raising funds for cancer research.
Westcycle spokesman Wayne Bradshaw said the death was a tragedy for the cycling community.
“It’s a tragic outcome for the family, it’s a tragic outcome for the community and for someone not to take responsibility for their actions is abhorrent,” he told 9 News Perth.
A spokesperson for the MACA cancer 200 ride said it was “heartbreaking” to lose a member of their community.
“It is with profound sadness that we have learned a member of the MACA cancer 200 ride for the Perkins community was involved a tragic road incident yesterday,” the spokesperson said.
“Our hearts go out to his family, friends, team mates and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“The MACA cancer 200 brings together a close-knit community of people united by a shared purpose. To lose someone from this community is deeply heartbreaking.”
Strawbridge will be back in court on November 23.