A Perth man has made his first court appearance over an alleged hit-and-run incident in Westminster that left a cyclist fighting for his life in hospital.
Court Appearance Following Alleged December Incident
Pulkit Gandabhai Patel, 43, stood before the Perth Magistrates Court on Monday, 12 January 2026. He faces a serious charge related to the events of December 15 last year.
The charge against him is failing to stop and ensure assistance was provided after an incident occasioning grievous bodily harm. This relates to an alleged collision between a vehicle he was driving and a 60-year-old male cyclist.
Details of the Westminster Collision
Police prosecutors allege the incident occurred around 6pm on Wanneroo Road in Westminster, near the intersection with Amberley Way. According to their case, Mr Patel was behind the wheel of a white Mitsubishi panel van when he allegedly struck the cyclist.
It is further alleged that Mr Patel fled the scene immediately after the collision. However, investigators state that he returned to the location a short time later.
The consequences for the cyclist were severe. He sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash and required urgent medical transport. He was rushed via ambulance to Royal Perth Hospital for emergency treatment.
Legal Process and Next Steps
Monday's hearing was a brief procedural matter. The magistrate adjourned Mr Patel's case to allow him time to seek legal advice on the charge he faces.
The matter is now scheduled to return to the Perth Magistrates Court on February 2. It is expected that Mr Patel will enter a formal plea on that date, which will determine the future path of the proceedings.
Cases involving allegations of failing to stop after a serious accident are treated with gravity by Western Australian courts, especially when grievous bodily harm results. The outcome of the February hearing will be closely watched.
