Dunlop dies after motorbike crash
Motorcyclist Robert Dunlop has died after suffering severe chest injuries in a crash in Thursday’s practice session at the North West 200.
Another Northern Ireland rider, Darren Burns, suffered a suspected broken leg and concussion in the accident, but is said to be stable in hospital.
The accident happened in the 250cc qualifying session, near Portrush in County Antrim.
Dunlop’s brother Joey was killed in a racing accident in Estonia in 2000.
The riders were travelling at speeds of about 160mph when the accident happened as they approached the Mathers Cross section of the course.
Dunlop’s bike appeared to seize and he went over the handlebars.
He was rushed to the Causeway Hospital in nearby Coleraine, where he died from his injuries shortly after 2200 BST.
Burns was following behind and was unable to avoid hitting the Ballymoney rider.
Dunlop had sustained serious injuries in a crash at the Isle of Man TT in 1994, but he recovered and returned to action.
Another Northern Ireland rider, Denver Robb, was behind both motorcyclists when the accident happened.
“Coming up to Mathers (Cross), Burns was leading and I was second, just sitting in his slipstream,” he said.
“Then Robert - it was one of the Dunlops - came past me and as soon as he did he just shot off into Mathers and the bike seized.
“There was a puff of smoke and the bike locked up, she went sideways, and I think Robert must have grabbed the front brake.
“He went out over the top of the bike and landed on the road. Then Burnsy had nowhere to go and he clipped him and he went straight on.”
Clerk of course Mervyn Whyte said he was devastated by the death.
Robert was one of NI’s best known and most experienced riders
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Robert’s family and we extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Louise, children William, Daniel and Michael and wider family circle,” he said.
“The MCUI (UC) - Motor Cycling Union of Ireland and PSNI (Police Service of Northern Ireland) are in the process of fully investigating the incident which happened during the 125, 250, 400 practice session on the first lap.
“Robert was one of Northern Ireland’s best known and most experienced riders, who will always been remembered for his infectious personality and love for road racing.”
First Minister Ian Paisley and Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said they were deeply saddened by the death.
“This is a tragedy that will be felt deeply by the people of Northern Ireland,” Mr Paisley said.
“Robert was one of our greatest sportsmen and will be sadly missed.”
Mr McGuinness said: “Robert, like his brother Joey before him, was a tremendous ambassador for his sport.
“I also offer my sincerest sympathies to his family.”
Northern Ireland Sports Minister Edwin Poots said: “Robert was a much loved respected and talented member of the motorsport community and will be missed by all.”
