GEORGE NEWS - An incident that some describe as a freak accident and others as a possible mechanical error, caused the death of an on-duty municipal employee, John Muller (49), in Ballots Bay on Monday 15 July.
According to unconfirmed information gathered by George Herald, Muller, who was the sewer suction truck driver, was working together with one or two colleagues outside the vehicle on a sewage line in Turn Again Lane when an accident occurred. At this stage it is unclear exactly what happened.
The truck rolled forward and eventually came to a halt underneath a wooden house on stilts. As far as could be confirmed, no other people were injured. Muller was declared dead on the scene.
Muller started his career at the municipality in 1996 and worked in the sanitation department in the Civil Engineering Directorate.
John Muller will be fondly remembered by his loved ones and colleagues.
George Municipality confirmed the accident and said it was with deep regret that they had to report the passing of one of their employees, but couldn't give any more information.
"George Municipality cannot provide any details regarding the accident as the case is under investigation by the South African Police Service. We extend our sincere condolences to the family of the deceased. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time," said Jannie Koegelenberg, the director of civil engineering.
Following the incident, Thembalethu Police opened an inquest docket while Muller's death is being investigated.
The truck came to a halt underneath a wooden house.
The truck was recovered from the scene on Tuesday afternoon, 16 July. Photo: Kristy Kolberg
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