Gazette Staff

PLOVER — A local man was found dead as a result of an apparent bicycle accident.

According to a joint news release from the Plover and Stevens Point Police Departments, on Wednesday, Oct. 24, atr approximately 9:22 p.m., Plover authorities were dispatched to a residence on Rivers Edge Court in the Village of Plover for a welfare check.

Christopher Nielsen, a 53-year-old Plover man had not been heard from since leaving his Plover residence for a bicycle ride in the late afternoon.

According to reports, search efforts for Mr. Nielsen were conducted throughout the evening with the assistance of the Portage County Sheriff’s Office, Stevens Point Police Department and friends/relatives of Mr. Nielsen.

This morning, at approximately 8:22 a.m., Nielsen was found deceased on a bicycle trail north of Riverview Avenue in Stevens Point on the east side of the Wisconsin River. Initial investigation indicates a bicycle related accident to be a contributing factor in his death.

“Our hearts and thoughts go out to the family during this difficult time.”