A 26-year-old man who was behind the wheel of the truck that ploughed into a stationary motorbike at a traffic light, killing a policewoman in Melbourne’s south-east on Thursday, has been charged.
Truck driver Samandeep Singh has been charged with culpable driving causing death and dangerous driving.
Police is alleging that the truck failed to stop at a red light, hitting the motorbike from behind just before 9 am on Thursday in Wantirna.
The victim, in her 40s, was trapped underneath the truck until she was freed by emergency services. She died at the scene.
“Tragically she is a policewoman who was on her way to work, which made it even more challenging for the police who responded,” Assistant Commissioner Rick Nugent said.
Fairfax Media reports that the court has been told thatSamandeep was assessed as bring “suicidal”. His lawyer, Chen Yang said a forensic medical officer diagnosed his clients as having “suicidal ideation” after his arrest.
The accused truck driver from Ferntree Gully in Melbourne’s east appeared before Magistrate’s Court on Friday and did not apply for bail.
Anyone who witnessed the incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.