Truck driver Paul Hetaraka’s heroic last act in tragic fatal crash

A Sydney truck driver who was killed in a tragic crash on a major highway at the Gold Coast has been hailed a legend after a ’heroic’ last act to save others during the horrific accident.

Paul Hetaraka, the truck driver who died in a tragic crash at Gaven.

A truck driver who was killed in a tragic crash on a major highway at the Gold Coast has been hailed a legend after a ‘heroic’ last act to save others during the horrific accident.

Paul Hetaraka died after the truck he was driving crashed into the barriers while heading northbound on the Pacific Motorway at Gaven just before 6am on December 7.

Ambulance officers said the incident was being investigated but it is believed the driver may have experienced a medical episode.

Despite his tragic death Mr Hetaraka, a 66-year-old, has been hailed a hero on social media after being able to take his truck to a safe area on the side of the highway and not injure anyone else even though he reportedly suffered a medical episode.

“RIP you died a hero saving all those people from being in an accident you a true bloody legend fly high,” one person wrote on Facebook.

Paul Hetaraka, the truck driver who died in a tragic crash at Gaven.

“You’re a legend and hero mate, in your final moments you put others ahead of yourself. Your family and other families will forever remember you as a selfless beautiful person, thank you,” another person wrote.

Johnna-Lee Toi, who was raised by Mr Hetaraka since she was a baby, paid tribute to a man who had such a big impact on her life, saying he was a person who would do anything for anyone.

Paul Hetaraka, the truck driver who died in a tragic crash at Gaven.

“(I was) shocked and numb when I heard the news about the crash, I broke down, it was not a good feeling at all,” she said.

“He was always there for me and for all of us.

“He was loved by all people who knew him.”

She also said Mr Hetaraka’s last act of avoiding others on the highway during the crash was typical of the special person he was.

“I think it’s awesome, he never hurt anyone,” she said.

Others on social media paid tribute to the popular truckie and father-of-two.

“RIP Paul Hetaraka I’m going to miss you mate, a true gentleman and a great man. Sad, taken to soon,” Bill Hartland said on Facebook.

Police are appealing to anyone who witnessed the crash, or who may have dash-camera footage, to contact them and investigations are ongoing.