A 70-year-old man has tragically lost his life after being struck by a garbage truck in the Perth suburb of Queens Park, Australia. The incident occurred on Monday, September 7, around 8:50 a.m., as the man was walking along Balaka Way, according to a statement from the Government of Western Australia.
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The victim, identified as An Yu, a Chinese national, was immediately taken to Royal Perth Hospital following the collision, where he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the garbage truck, a 59-year-old man, was reported to be uninjured in the incident.
Local residents reported hearing a loud noise around the time of the accident. Yuksel Terzi, a neighbour, described the moment, noting, “It was around 8:40 a.m. I heard a loud sort of bang-ish noise. And then a few minutes later the police came knocking on the door to see if we had any footage of the situation.” Terzi expressed his sorrow over the tragic event, remarking that Yu was a well-known presence in the neighbourhood.
“It’s heartbreaking. It’s not easy because it’s someone you see almost every morning when he’s walking around trying to look after himself,” Terzi told ABC News. His daughter, Neslihan, shared her own memories of Yu, stating, “It’s very sad, you know, because I always see him when I leave the house. He was a sweet man and he also took care of my cat a lot.”
Yu had suffered a stroke several years prior and walked at a slower pace. CCTV footage captured him walking along Balaka Way shortly before the fatal incident. Following the crash, his wife discovered him injured, and his two daughters, residing overseas, have been en route to Perth to be with their family after this devastating loss.
Canning Mayor Patrick Hall expressed condolences and offered support for everyone affected by the incident. “Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the person’s family, loved ones and all those affected by this tragic accident,” he stated. Hall also mentioned that the city would be reviewing the circumstances of the accident to assess whether additional safety measures might be required.
Councillor Michelle Hurn of the City of Canning also addressed the community on social media, acknowledging the shock waves this accident has sent through the area. “My thoughts and sympathies are with the man’s family and loved ones, and all those affected,” she wrote.
As the investigation continues, local police are urging anyone who may have witnessed the incident or who has information related to it to come forward. The Government of Western Australia is committed to looking into all aspects of the incident to ensure justice is served and prevent any similar tragedies in the future.
This incident has deeply impacted the local community, showcasing the connections shared among residents and the profound sense of loss felt after the unexpected tragedy. The safety and wellbeing of pedestrians and drivers alike are now at the forefront of discussions in the wake of this heartbreaking event.