Disabled man killed by city truck driver
A City of Cape Town truck driver is facing a charge of culpable homicide after knocking into a man on a wheelchair and killing him.
The disabled victim, only identified as Willem, was a well-known face and used to beg at the robots on Old Paarl Road and Van Riebeeck Street in Kraaifontein, as well as various shops.
His wheelchair was stuck to the front of the large City truck and it is believed that the impact killed Willem instantly.
The incident occurred last Wednesday on the corner of Van Riebeeck and Voortrekker Road in Belmont Park.
Gavin Riddels, a community spokesperson, said: “Every day he used to roll in his chair to collect money. In his younger years, we served in the same church and he was a member of the neighbourhood watch in Scottsdene.
“He told me that he lost his legs due to his diabetes.”
Police spokesman FC Van Wyk says: “This office can confirm that a culpable homicide case was registered at Kraaifontein SAPS for investigation following an accident at the corner of Van Riebeeck and Voortrekker Road, Belmont Park, Kraaifontein, where a 52-year-old male was hit and fatally injured. According to reports the deceased was crossing the road in his wheelchair and was then hit by a truck. Investigations continue, no arrest as yet.”
City spokesperson, Luthando Tyhalibongo says: “The City can confirm the incident. We send our deepest condolences to the family of the victim.”
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