SAPOL officer and local swimming legend dies after bicycle accident in Adelaide

Tributes are flowing for a South Australian police officer and a beloved member of the state’s swimming community who died two weeks after a bicycle accident in the Adelaide suburbs.

Ashley Deacon, 57, was biking on Flagstaff Rd last month when he reportedly hit a concrete curb. He died Tuesday, “exhausted from a valiant fight to overcome injuries” and surrounded by his family.

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The Aberfoyle Park man was on a morning drive on Flagstaff Rd near Hyland Avenue at 6.40am on March 22 when the tragedy happened, police say.

No other vehicles were involved.

Deacon was taken to Flinders Medical Center in critical condition and later died from his injuries.

“For most of his career, Ashley worked in the Southern District and was a valued member of the South Australia Police,” said a police spokesman.

“It is with great sadness that South Australia Police announce the death of Constable Ashley Deacon following a bicycle accident last month.

“We extend our condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.”

Deacon was an active member of the state’s swimming community, and Swimming SA extended its condolences to his family.

“Swimming SA is saddened by the unexpected death of Ashley Deacon, affectionately known to all as Ash,” the statement read.

“Ash will be remembered as the mad Englishman who was always willing to give up his time to help out on the pool deck and who told the best stories.”

Local Deacon swim club Marion also paid tribute to the “magnanimous character.”

“Exhausted from a valiant fight to overcome the injuries he sustained last week, he now rests peacefully,” said Marion Swimming Club.

“A SAPOL officer with distinction, a former ‘Bobby from the Old Dart’, he represented what is outstanding in his community – integrity, happiness and support from all.

“His blue eyes, quick wit and smile often broke the ice and solved a situation.

“Prone to the odd coffee or two, he’s always been one to build relationships and make friends for life over a cup.

“Those relationships made him a big-hearted character who cared about everyone and wanted everyone to be okay.”

His death is the 41st life lost on the streets of SA this year, compared to 19 this time last year.