URGENT UPDATE: A tragic incident unfolded on Saturday night when 20-year-old Bradley Wilder lost his life during a police pursuit in Newcastle. Authorities confirm Wilder was riding his motorbike when he failed to stop for police, leading to a chase that ended fatally on the Pacific Highway at Charlestown.
Witnesses report that police initiated the pursuit after suspecting Wilder’s motorbike was unregistered due to partially obscured number plates. The chase lasted approximately five minutes before Wilder lost control of the bike and collided with a traffic pole. Emergency services rushed to the scene, but tragically, he was pronounced dead at the site of the accident.
A critical incident investigation is now underway to scrutinize all aspects of the police pursuit, including the driving conduct of both Wilder and the officers involved. This investigation aims to assess the appropriateness of police actions during the chase.
Bradley Wilder’s family and friends are devastated by his untimely death. His cousin, Monique Wilder, expressed heartbreak in a statement, describing him as a “soft spoken, well-behaved, and respectful young man.” She highlighted that he was a safe rider and that this incident felt out of character for him.
Monique revealed that Bradley was preparing to take his father, Craig Wilder, to Sydney for a lung transplant, a responsibility he was eagerly anticipating. “He was so keen on being a post-operation carer for three months,” Monique shared, adding that it was heartbreaking for the family to lose him just as his father’s health was poised to improve.
Bradley was also known for his love of video games and spending quality time with his family, making this loss even more profound for those who knew him.
As the investigation progresses, it is crucial for the community to remember the impact this loss has on Bradley’s family and friends. Authorities urge anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward as they seek clarity on the tragic events that transpired.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
