A 21-year-old Ħamrun motorist who allegedly was driving under the influence of alcohol was yesterday charged with the manslaughter of keen cyclist Cliff Micallef on Thursday morning.

Anthony Taliana, who is unemployed, pleaded not guilty to involuntary homicide, driving in a dangerous manner and when drunk, failing to stop at an accident, driving without insurance and relapsing after being convicted for dangerous driving for which he had been fined.

Mr Taliana's defence lawyer, Michael Sciriha said his client wanted to express his deepest sympathy to the victim's family.

Mr Micallef, who had planned to join the Lifecycle challenge next week, was cycling at 5.15 a.m. along the coast road in Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq when he was killed in a hit-and-run. The police found part of a car and a number plate close to where Mr Micallef died. Mr Taliana's car, a blue Opel Astra, is known to have suffered extensive damage in the front part. It has been impounded by the police.

Magistrate Anthony Vella denied a request for bail and remanded Mr Taliana in custody.

Police Inspector Kevin Farrugia prosecuted. Lawyer Ian Farrugia also appeared for Mr Taliana.

Lawyer Alexander Schembri appeared parte civile.

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