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Tributes for man who died after being hit by stolen car

Tributes have begun to flow for a Sunshine Coast grandfather of four who died in tragic circumstances. Family have said life without him will be “extremely difficult”.

Sunshine Coast grandfather dies when hit by stolen car (Seven News)

THE Sunshine Coast man who died after being struck by an allegedly stolen car that mounted the footpath was a grandfather-of-four who was “happy to help anyone out”.

David Mallett, 63, from the Sunshine Coast, was visiting Bundaberg for work and walking along a footpath on Bourbong St on Monday night when the tragedy unfolded.

Pedestrian dies after being hit by stolen car

Family told 7 News Mr Mallet was a “well loved man” who “adored his family”.

Mr Mallett was married with three children and had four grandchildren.

David Mallett died on Monday night in Bundaberg after being struck by a stolen car. Picture: Facebook
David Mallett died on Monday night in Bundaberg after being struck by a stolen car. Picture: Facebook

“Life without him is just going to be extremely difficult,” family told 7 News.

A professional associate of Mr Mallett wrote online that the Sunshine Coast local was the nicest bloke he had ever met.

“David was the nicest bloke I’ve ever met, always happy to help anyone out,” JC Auto Detailing wrote.

Pictures from the crash scene. Picture: 7 News Brisbane
Pictures from the crash scene. Picture: 7 News Brisbane

“He loved his family so much and used to spend time chatting and showing me photos of his family every time he visited.

“David was on the verge of retiring and spending quality time with his wife and family.”

Bundaberg Patrol Group Inspector Anne Vogler said a silver Toyota was travelling west on Bourbong St at “high speed” and unfortunately “lost control and hit a pedestrian” about 7.45pm.

Mr Mallett was married with three children and four grandchildren. Picture: 7 News Brisbane
Mr Mallett was married with three children and four grandchildren. Picture: 7 News Brisbane

The car was allegedly stolen from Avenell Heights about one hour before the crash.

“The vehicle was reported stolen, police were at the station actually putting on that report and another individual was following the vehicle, a civilian,” Inspector Vogler said.

The driver has been charged with dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing death and driving without a license.

He was also charged with unlawful use of a motor vehicle and burglary.

Original URL: https://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/tributes-for-man-who-died-after-being-hit-by-stolen-car/news-story/50828bf1da960bdb8e8b3827238ef48d