NewsBite

Suspended driver charged after passenger killed in ute tray fall

Tributes are flowing for a Eddy Calder, 29, who tragically died after being thrown from the tray of a ute in the state’s far west. The driver has been charged with a string of offences, including dangerous driving causing death, and has been refused bail.

The tragic truth about road deaths in Australia

Tributes are flowing for a 29-year-old man who tragically died after being thrown from the tray of a ute in the state’s far west.

Police from Barrier Police District believe Eddy Calder, 29, was riding in the back of the ute driven by Taite Cowley, 21, about 11pm on Thursday when he was thrown from the vehicle.

Mr Calder suffered numerous injuries as a result of the fall and died at the scene.

Mr Cowley was taken to Broken Hill Base Hospital for mandatory testing, before being taken to Broken Hill Police Station for questioning.

Eddy Calder, 29, died after being thrown from a ute tray in Broken Hill. Picture: Facebook
Eddy Calder, 29, died after being thrown from a ute tray in Broken Hill. Picture: Facebook

He was later charged with a string of offences, including dangerous driving cause death, driving whilst licence suspended and driving with a passenger in part of vehicle not permitted.

Heartfelt tributes for the much-loved Broken Hill local began to emerge today.

“I am so glad you knew I loved you and I wouldn’t change any of our memories for anything,” one friend wrote online.

“I can’t believe this had happened to someone so good,” wrote another.

“Our little family just won’t be the same without you.”

Tributes are flowing for Eddy Calder after his tragic death. Picture: Facebook
Tributes are flowing for Eddy Calder after his tragic death. Picture: Facebook

Broken Hill Mayor Darriea Turley AM said that the small outback town was mourning the loss of a “son”.

“This is such tragic news for the community of Broken Hill,” she said.

“Our thoughts are with his family and friends.

“When a small town loses one of our family, everyone comes together.”

Mr Cowley, a keen dirt bike rider, was refused bail when he appeared before Broken Hill Local Court today.

Originally published as Suspended driver charged after passenger killed in ute tray fall

Original URL: https://www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au/news/national/suspended-driver-charged-after-passenger-killed-in-ute-tray-fall/news-story/e0fb4feb0bc8e9a06efae08e04865750