A man who died three days after a serious crash in Auckland’s Avondale is being remembered by his family, colleagues and friends as a caring and generous father.
Bhupesh Patel was riding his bike home along Rosebank Rd last Wednesday afternoon when a vehicle struck him.
Patel had reportedly left work early that day so he could take his two sons to their kempo, or martial arts, lesson.
His employer, JMP Engineering, said: “Tragically, he was struck by a vehicle before he made it home.”
Emergency services were called to the crash at about 4pm. Ambulance staff treated Patel at the scene before taking him to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition.
Police confirmed today that Patel died from his injuries over the weekend.
JMP Engineering said his death had left colleagues “deeply shocked and saddened”.
“But most of all it has left his family facing an unimaginable loss,” the company wrote on a Givealittle fundraising page set up to support Patel’s family.
Colleagues described Patel as kind, generous with his time and always willing to help others.
“Those of us who worked alongside him knew not only his ability and dedication, but also his warmth, humour and friendship.
“The support, messages and kindness already shown by friends, colleagues and the wider community mean a great deal.
“Bhupesh will be very deeply missed.”
Police said inquiries into the circumstances of the crash were continuing, as reported by the New Zealand Herald.