Grandfather victim of horrific two-truck crash at Yalata identified

A much-loved grandfather has been identified as the victim of a horrific two-truck crash that occurred on Thursday morning, as police confirm three people died in the tragedy.

A much-loved grandfather and truck driver has been identified as one of three victims of the horrific two-truck crash on the Eyre Highway at Yalata.

Emergency services received reports of a serious crash that occurred about 27km west of Yalata, just before 7am on Thursday.

Police confirmed three people – a 77-year-old man from Smithfield driving a road train, a 25-year-old man from New South Wales and a 45-year-old man from Victoria died at the scene.

Loved ones quickly flooded social media to share touching tributes to Neville Mugridge, who was better known as Slim.

Smithfield Sports and Social Club, where he was a well-known member, shared a photo to Facebook of a frame picture of Slim, alongside a bouquet of flowers and a signed jersey from loved ones.

The Smithfield Sports and Social Club posted tributes online for truck crash victim Neville Mugridge (also known as Slim). Picture: Facebook

Mr Mugridge was a much loved grandfather. Picture: Facebook

One friend remembered him as a “true legend of the transport industry”.

“A bloke I have known for as long as I can remember,” the wrote.

“From riding my push bike down to the old J & A yard to annoy you, to having the honour of travelling the highway together.

“You were one of the old fellas that always had the time for JUST about anyone … Rest in peace mate and say G’day to dad for me.”

Another wrote: “Rip Slim, you legend. Gonna miss them good old chats and advice you used to give us young lads. True legend and man lost today, heart goes out to your family and friends.”

Neville was remembered as a “true legend of the transport industry”. Picture: Facebook

The collision occurred on Thursday March 4, 27km west of Yalata. Picture: Facebook

Perth-based business The Kleening Zone, remembered Slim as “the most loyal, humble and genuine man.”

“We all adored you,” they wrote on the Facebook post.

“There’s a special place for you in everyone’s hearts.”

The tragic collision on Thursday caused the trucks to erupt in flames, with rescue crews spending the entire day at the scene to investigate and clean up the road.

Police said the Eyre Highway has now reopened after being closed for more than 12 hours after the tragedy.