A cyclist who was hit by a car in St John Street on Wednesday morning has died, police have confirmed.
A cyclist who was hit by a car in St John Street on Wednesday morning has died, police have confirmed.
The crash that killed Professor Maria Bitner-Glindzicz, 55, also involved a black cab and a stationary car. It took place at the Clerkenwell end of the road.
She was a Professor of Molecular Genetics and a Clinical Geneticist, and her role at Great Ormond Street Children’s Hospital specialised in child deafness.
One friend told the Gazette: “[Prof Bitner-Glindzicz] is irreplaceable. She was at the forefront of advancing research into genes related to deafness and lectured numerous times to many in the related medical fields.
“She was a role model to women consultants in our NHS. She has played a vital role in bringing genetics into mainstream medicine. She was always approachable and professional – the worst thing is she had so much more to offer.”
Paying tribute to Prof Bitner-Glindzicz, another friend told the Gazette she was a “wonderful woman”.
“She was always careful on her bike and was so safe,” she added.
“Her work revolves around children and she did lots of research into helping children with difficult diseases.”
Professor Rosalind Smyth, director of the University College London Institute of Child Health, said: “We are deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the tragic death of Professor Maria Bitner-Glindzicz in a cycling accident.
“She was a much loved and hugely respected member of our UCL community. Professor Bitner was an outstanding clinical geneticist who dedicated her career to helping others and was carrying out important research into the genetic causes of deafness in children and adults. Her death is an enormous loss.
“Our thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues. We kindly request their privacy is respected at this very difficult time.”
The drivers of both cars stopped at the scene and have not been arrested, police said.
Officers from the Met’s serious collision investigation unit are appealing for witnesses, especially anyone with dashcam footage of the collision.
Did you know Prof Bitner-Glindzicz? Contact Lucas at the Gazette: 020 7433 0121 or lucas.cumiskey@archant.co.uk
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