Police will allege the 28-year-old from Mount Louisa fled the scene after he hit the cyclists

This article is more than 6 months old

This article is more than 6 months old

Police have charged a man following an alleged hit-and-run which left five cyclists injured.

The cyclists were taken to Townsville hospital after being struck while riding at 5.40am on Wednesday along Dalrymple Road in Mount Louisa.

Police will allege the 28-year-old man from Mount Louisa fled the scene after he hit the cyclists.

It is also alleged he was intoxicated while driving.

Three women and two men, aged in their 30s to 50s, were being treated for a range of serious injuries to their lower bodies.

They were all in a stable condition when taken to hospital.

The driver will appear in the Townsville magistrates court on Thursday charged with seven offences, including four counts of dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing grievous bodily harm.

Townsville police have since recovered a Toyota Rav 4 believed to be involved in the incident.

The vehicle, which was not stolen, is currently being examined.

Queensland’s police minister, Mark Ryan, told parliament his thoughts were with the injured cyclists.

“I have no doubt that this incident will hit Townsville’s cycling community hard,” he said.