A British man who became known for both an extraordinary act of heroism and a life-changing lottery win has died following a suspected hit-and-run collision in Essex.
Hit While Riding His Bike
Anthony Canty, 39, was seriously injured after being struck while riding his bicycle in Tiptree on the morning of May 21. He was taken to the hospital but died from his injuries four days later.
The father of two had attracted national attention in 2020 after helping save the life of a police officer who collapsed on a bus. Canty, Maldon resident, managed to perform CPR until emergency services arrived at the scene, an act that was widely praised at the time.
Just days after that dramatic incident, life took another unexpected turn when he and his partner, Katie Sullivan, won GBP 1 million ($1.33 million) in the EuroMillions draw on May 5, 2020.
Now, friends, family and local residents are mourning the loss of a man remembered for his kindness and willingness to help others.
Suspect Released
According to Essex Police, the collision occurred on Maldon Road in Tiptree early in the morning. Officers say the vehicle involved allegedly left the scene after the crash.
An 18-year-old man driving a Ford KA was later located by police and arrested in connection with the incident. He was initially arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving while unfit through drink or drugs, and failing to stop following a collision.
Police confirmed that the driver has since been released under investigation while inquiries continue.
“He remains under investigation and our enquiries continue,” a police spokesperson said.
Investigators are continuing to piece together exactly what happened in the moments leading up to the collision and are appealing for witnesses to come forward.
Authorities are particularly interested in hearing from anyone who may have been driving in the area at the time and could have captured footage on a dashboard camera. Officers are also asking local residents and businesses to review any CCTV recordings that may assist the investigation.
The tragic death has drawn attention not only because of Canty’s remarkable lottery win, but also because of the selfless act that helped save another person’s life years earlier.