A much-loved father of two has died in a freak accident while working on his car.
Johnathan O’Neill, 49, was repairing his vehicle in the driveway of his Lambton home in Newcastle, in the Hunter region of New South Wales, when the car went off the ramps and crushed him on July 13.
The worker, who worked as a steel repairman, was freed from under the car by paramedics but they were unable to save him.
His devastated family, who has so far raised more than $3,500 for his funeralHe said her death was “very sudden and heartbreaking.”
He is remembered as a loving father, brother, uncle and son.
“Johnathan was loved and cared for by so many people,” his nephew Luc Holmes said. 7News.
‘He was a great guy who loved helping others no matter the situation.
Johnathan O’Neill (pictured), 49, was repairing his vehicle at his home in Lambton, Newcastle, when it went off the ramps and crushed him.
His devastated family, who have so far raised more than $3,500 for his funeral, said his death was “very sudden and heartbreaking.”
“Our family is definitely struggling with this sudden and traumatic loss.”
Mr O’Neill was also an avid Brisbane Broncos fan and named his dog after his beloved NRL team.
Mr Holmes also thanked all those who supported the family and made donations.
“We are so grateful for all the support and help people have shown us during this terrible time,” she wrote in the fundraiser.
‘We would like to thank everyone for all the support we have received and the kindness you continue to show us.
“We appreciate all the kindness and generosity from the community and want everyone to know that their support and condolences do not go unnoticed.”
Police are investigating Mr O’Neill’s death and a report will be prepared for the coroner.
Johnathan O’Neill has been remembered as a loving father, brother, uncle and son.
In 2019, Australia’s consumer watchdog warned that 120 Australians died during do-it-yourself car repair incidents.
“Tragically, many people, including some experienced mechanics, have been crushed and killed while working underneath their car,” said Mick Keogh, deputy chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.
Mr Keogh, who revealed that most of the deaths occurred among men aged 40 to 49, encouraged people to work on cars only on level ground and never get under a car that is only supported by a jack.