Beloved dad and avid cyclist identified as victim of Bibra Lake hit-and-run

The victim of a hit-and-run incident in Bibra Lake on Tuesday morning has been identified as a father and husband who had recently taken part in a charity cycling event to raise funds for cancer research.

Joseph Paratore, 40, was riding his bike on North Lake Road, south of the intersection with Sobek Pass when he was hit by a vehicle at 5.20am, police said.

He died at the scene “as a result of the injuries he sustained in the crash”, they said.

The driver allegedly failed to stop and is now the subject of a police search.

“Investigators wish to speak to the driver of a white 4WD vehicle sighted in the area around the time of
the collision,” they said.

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.

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.

Police urge anyone who saw the crash to contact Crime Stoppers online at
www.crimestopperswa.com.au or by calling 1800 333 000.