A food delivery driver was killed in an alleged hit-and-run, and a man is charged with drunk driving over the “senseless tragedy.”
A 27-year-old cyclist, who has not yet been identified, was allegedly hit by a car while returning home along Plummer Street in Port Melbourne at around 8pm on Monday.
“The driver of the car initially fled the scene before handing himself over to police a short time later,” a Victoria Police spokesman said.
The 32-year-old driver was later charged with failing to stop and assist at an accident and driving under the influence of alcohol.
He was released on bail and will appear in Melbourne Magistrates Court on Thursday.
Transport Workers Union national secretary Michael Kaine said the “tragic” incident marked the The 18th food delivery driver to die on Australian roads in recent years.
“Self-employed food delivery workers in Australia are some of the most vulnerable workers in this country,” Kaine said.
‘A food delivery driver not returning home after a shift is a senseless tragedy that his family and the wider worker community will be forced to deal with.
A 27-year-old cyclist, who has not yet been identified, was allegedly hit by a car while returning home on Plummer Street in Port Melbourne at around 8pm on Monday.
‘Food delivery workers currently have no rights such as a safe and fair minimum wage, sick leave, protection from unfair terminations, and workers’ compensation in the dire event that something goes wrong.’
The alleged victim appeared to be riding a DoorDash-branded bicycle at the time of the incident.
The company said it was assisting police and trying to establish whether the person was one of its passengers.
It is understood the incident did not occur during an active delivery trip.
Transport Workers Union national secretary Michael Kaine said the “tragic” incident marked the 18th food delivery driver to die on Australian roads.
A Door Dash spokesperson said the company was “absolutely devastated by this tragic loss of life.”
“Our hearts go out to the loved ones of the cyclists during this horrific tragedy. We have been in contact with Victoria Police to help bring those responsible to justice and assist with any investigation,” the spokesperson added.