UPDATE:
A CARINGBAH man, 43, who died after being hit by a Sutherland Shire Council garbage truck in a Caringbah laneway on Friday morning, may have been asleep, police said.
Emergency services were called at 5am to Burns Lane, near President Avenue, after the man’s body was found. His first name is believed to be Michael.
A Metropolitan Crash Investigation Unit spokeswoman said the man was hit when the truck came around a corner.
‘‘We believe from our investigations that the man was lying in the gutter and possibly was asleep,’’ she said.
‘‘Unfortunately, the driver did not realise until we brought it to his attention. He rang it in after the observer on the back of the truck saw a body.’’
Detective Inspector Shane Woolbank from Miranda police said it was not uncommon for the man to be wandering the streets early in the morning.
The truck driver, 33, was taken to hospital for mandatory blood and urine testing.
A council spokeswoman said the man’s death was a tragic accident.
“The council is working with the police to assist with the investigation,’’ the spokeswoman said.
‘‘Counselling has been offered to the staff involved and any other council staff members who would like to speak to a counsellor. Our condolences are extended to the victim’s family.
‘‘Garbage truck drivers must have excellent driving records and undergo on-the-job peer training and comprehensive instruction from the council’s qualified trainer before operating garbage trucks.’’
Investigators are appealing for witnesses, not interviewed by police, to come forward.
A report will be prepared for the State Coroner.
Crime Stoppers, 1800333000.
Did you know the man?
FRIDAY STORY:
A Caringbah man, 43, has died after being hit by a Sutherland Shire Council garbage truck in a Caringbah lane this morning.
Emergency services were called to Burns Lane, near President Avenue, at 5am after the man’s body was found.
It is believed he was sitting in the gutter when the truck came around a corner and hit him.
Miranda police said the man, who was known to police, died at the scene.
Detective Inspector Shane Woolbank said it wasn’t uncommon for the man to be wandering the streets early in the morning.
The truck driver was not injured but was taken to hospital for mandatory blood and urine testing.
Metropolitan Crash Investigation Unit officers are appealing for witnesses, not interviewed by police, to come forward.
A report will be prepared for the State Coroner.
Sutherland Shire Council has delayed garbage collection for parks and reserves in the eastern part of the shire due to the fatal accident. Details: 9710 0333.
Motorists are advised to expect traffic delays, although President Avenue west-bound on the Kingsway is now open.
Crime Stoppers, 1800 333 000.
