Driver not to blame for “Unspeakable tragedy”, coroner finds

A coroner has found the death of a four year old, who was run over by a garbage truck last year, was not the fault of the driver.

A coroner has revealed the death of a four year old, who was run over in January last year, was not the fault of the driver, who would not have been able to see the child.

The boy was killed outside his Newnham home when he was riding a small bike on the road and footpath around the garbage truck.

He died of head and chest injuries.

A four-year-old boy riding his bicycle was struck and killed by a garbage truck in January last year outside his home in Newnham, Launceston. Picture: Channel 7Tasmania

Coroner Simon Cooper said evidence suggested the driver did not and could not have seen the boy before he was run over.

Mr Cooper ruled out alcohol, drugs, speed and inattention as contributing factors and said the truck was mechanically sound.

It’s not believed road or weather conditions contributed to the boy’s death.

The coroner said the boy was not wearing a helmet, but a helmet would not have saved him.

“I convey my sincere condolences to the family and loved ones of LP,” Mr Cooper said.

“His death is an unspeakable tragedy.”

No comments or recommendations were made in relation to the death.