Mechanic Dies Crushed by Dump Truck During Repairs in North Sangatta
The Traffic Unit of the East Kutai Police (Kutim) is investigating the death of a mechanic who was crushed whilst repairing a dump truck on Jalan Yos Sudarso II, in front of LA Cell, North Sangatta District, on Wednesday afternoon. One person died and another was injured in the incident.
East Kutai Police Chief AKBP Fauzan Arianto, through Traffic Unit Head AKP Rezky Nur Harismeihendra, stated on Thursday that a series of police actions had been taken to determine the exact cause of the fatality. “We have visited and secured the scene, conducted a crime scene investigation, gathered witness statements, secured evidence, and are carrying out further inquiries. We have also requested a Visum et Repertum for the victim,” he confirmed.
He explained that initial investigations suggest the incident occurred because the jack was unable to support the vehicle’s weight for an extended period during the repair process. Rezky urged the public and transport business operators to always prioritise occupational safety standards when repairing vehicles, especially heavy vehicles. He advised ensuring that supporting tools are in proper condition and using additional safety systems to prevent similar incidents.
“As a result of this incident, one person was pronounced dead and another suffered minor injuries. Material losses are estimated at Rp10 million. The East Kutai Police Traffic Accident Unit is currently conducting further investigations to ascertain all factors that caused the incident,” he detailed.
He disclosed that, based on information gathered at the scene, the dump truck with registration number KT-88xx-VF had previously suffered axle damage and was forced to stop in the right-hand lane before the Surya Graha junction. “At around 4.30 p.m. Wita, three individuals, identified as J (37), S (25), and Y (30), were carrying out repairs on the underside of the vehicle using a jack to support the truck’s weight,” he stated.
However, during the repair process, the jack allegedly could not withstand the vehicle’s load for too long. Consequently, the dump truck body lost balance and fell towards the pavement on the right, striking a street lighting pole. “At that moment, victim S, who was underneath the vehicle, was immediately pinned by the truck body and suffered impact injuries to the right side of his chest after being struck by the right rear wheel mudguard,” he elaborated.
Meanwhile, the victim’s colleague Y suffered injuries and swelling to the lower left leg below the ankle. J managed to save himself by crawling out from under the vehicle before the dump truck fell. “Victim S was immediately evacuated to PKT Sangatta Hospital for medical treatment. However, after examination, the doctor stated the victim could not be saved and had died. The body was then taken to Kudungga Regional General Hospital in Sangatta for further handling. Victim Y is undergoing medical treatment for his injuries,” he concluded.