Bus driver about to become a grandfather killed in horror crash with NSW Police car
A bus driver killed after his vehicle crashed with an unmarked police car in Sydney on Tuesday morning was just weeks away from welcoming his first grandchild.
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The bus driver killed on impact in a collision with an unmarked NSW police car in Sydney’s north west can be identified as Andy Leonello, who was weeks away from becoming a grandfather for the first time.
The death today of the 76-year old AL Tours driver has shattered his daughter, son and wife Margaret who say he loved driving and was excited at the prospect of becoming a grandfather in July.
“We’re absolutely shattered and in shock about dad, we received the phone call this morning saying he died at the scene, it was his life driving buses, he’s such a careful driver and never had an accident in his life,” his daughter Melina Leonello said.
“He was in an accident with an unmarked police car and went into the trees, he was loving life and excited at becoming a grandfather.
“He loved his family and is a great loss to us.”
The tragic accident occurred at the intersection of Third and Fifth Avenues in Llandilo about 7.20am today, with emergency services called to reports of a crash between the bus and police car. The police officer was seen clambering out of the car to call Triple-0.
Police, NSW Ambulance paramedics and Fire and Rescue NSW crews attended, but Mr Leonello was pronounced dead at the scene. He was found on the ground, it is unclear whether he was thrown from the vehicle or carried through the windscreen.
The sergeant working at the time was not on a police pursuit. He suffered minor facial injuries and bruising and was taken to Westmead Hospital for treatment where he will undergo mandatory testing.
A special incident investigation is now being led by police, among them specialist officers attached to the Crash Investigation Unit.
The efforts of emergency crews to help the police officer and bus driver involved were hampered because of a collapsed powerline.
“The force of this accident was so great it brought down powerlines which created another challenge for paramedics and other emergency first responders,” NSW Ambulance inspector Keith Craig said.
“Despite his injuries the driver of the car got out and called for assistance after the accident. He should be praised for that effort.
“This accident is another reminder about the dangers we all face when we get behind the wheel. I would urge all drivers to take more care and patience on the roads so we can all arrive at our destinations safely.”
Local traffic diversions are in place at Third, Fifth, and Sixth avenues and Terrybrook Road. Motorists are advised to steer clear of the area.
The critical incident investigation will be subject to independent review and all information will be provided to the Coroner.
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