Cyclist doored by driver - now refusing to respond - plea for potential witnesses
Hello chain gang,
I was riding home from work in Hawthorn on Thursday 17 September 2026 around 5.15pm when a driver, who gave the name David Schatt, opened the door of a company van 'Jurgens Swiss Bread Co' onto me. This occurred outside 1 Lyall St (corner of Oxley Rd) Hawthorn, where he said he lived.
David was initially quite pleasant, he provided me with his name and number, and told all the bystanders he would look after me. I was quite rattled by the crash, and didnt think to get witness details (silly I know, but I was surprinsingly shaken up by the whole incident).
Unfortunately, as soon as everyone left, David became rude and dismissive and left me standing with one arm not working and a busted bike while he disappeared. I have since attempted to contact David, to ask him to do the right thing and chip in a small portion towards replacing my helmet, clothes and a bike service. He has refused to respond.
I'm not even particularly fussed about a small amount of money - but I am aggrieved that my arm is still injured, it hurts to hold my 3 month old son and David seems to think he can just get away with it.
Very small chance I know, but hoping on the off chance that someone is this group happened to be one of those people walking past that day, or knows someone who saw it happen and can contact me to provide a statement. I have attached a photo of David's work van - Jurgen's Swiss Bread Co - if anyone recalls seeing him hit me or anyone else please reach out. Thank you all.