Jibin Cheruvilputhenpurayil Benoy. Photo from GoFundMe.Jibin Cheruvilputhenpurayil Benoy. Photo from GoFundMe.
London

Blue sedan with loud muffler sought in fatal hit-and-run of cyclist

London police have released a more detailed description of the vehicle being sought in the fatal hit-and-run of a cyclist.

Jibin Cheruvilputhenpurayil Benoy, 29, of London, was cycling home from his job at Kluck It, a chicken restaurant on King Street, when he was hit by a vehicle in the area of Hamilton Road and Little Grey Street around 4:40 a.m. on Sunday.

Benoy, who had come to Canada from India to study at Fanshawe College, was rushed to hospital where he later died.

On Tuesday, investigators announced they are searching for a blue, possibly four-door, sedan with a loud muffler in relation to the case.

"The vehicle is believed to have significant damage to the front end, hood and windshield," police said.

Investigators are also asking anyone who may have dash-cam, residential or business surveillance video from the area between 4:30 a.m. and 4:45 a.m. the day of the collision to call them at 519- 661-5670.

In the wake of Benoy's death, his employer and the London Malayalee Association have launched GoFundMe campaigns to raise funds for his funeral and financial assistance for his family back in India.

The fundraiser setup by Benoy's employers, who described him as "a joy to be around" raised more than $15,800 before it was closed. The campaign by the London Malayalee Association is currently at more than $22,300.

A memorial bicycle ride for Benoy is also being planned for 7 p.m. on Friday. Cyclists are asked to wear bright colours and meet at the Canadian Tire on Horton Street near Colborne. They will then ride to the spot on Hamilton Road where Benoy was fatally struck.

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