A tragic incident occurred on Thursday afternoon in Surry Hills, a busy inner-city suburb of Sydney, where a man lost his life after being hit by a light rail vehicle. The accident happened near Devonshire Street around 1:15 PM. Emergency services rushed to the scene and found the man trapped under the tram. Despite their efforts, he sadly died at the scene. Witnesses nearby were shocked by what they saw, and many expressed concerns about how the accident occurred. The man, believed to be in his 40s, has not yet been publicly identified, and police are working to contact his family.
Emergency Response and What Witnesses Reported
Emergency crews, including police, ambulance, and fire services, responded quickly to the call. Paramedics tried to save the man, but unfortunately, he was declared dead at the scene. Several bystanders reported hearing a loud noise followed by people shouting for help. One witness said the man appeared to be crossing between two tram carriages just before the vehicle started moving. The tram stopped immediately, and passengers were asked to leave the area. The section was closed off by police while investigators started collecting evidence and speaking with anyone who saw what happened. It was a sad and unsettling moment for everyone present.
Impact on Light Rail Services and Passenger Disruption
The accident caused significant disruptions to light rail services in the city. Both the L2 Randwick and L3 Kingsford lines were suspended between Central Station and Moore Park. Commuters were asked to find other transport options, such as buses or trains. Many people experienced delays, especially during the afternoon travel rush. Transport workers were seen helping guide passengers and answering questions about alternative routes. Replacement buses were brought in to help move people between stations. Although the inconvenience was difficult for some, most commuters were understanding and concerned about the tragic loss of life rather than the disruption to their travel plans.
Police Investigation and Safety Questions
Police have launched a full investigation to determine what caused the accident. A crime scene was established at the location, and officers began reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses. According to early information, it appears the man may have crossed between two trams as they were about to move, which may have led to the accident. Inspector Anderson Lessing told reporters that a full report will be prepared for the coroner. Police and transport authorities are also looking at whether anything could have been done to prevent this and if there need to be stronger safety measures in place around the tram lines.
Community Reactions and Safety Concerns
The local community has responded with sadness and concern following the incident. Many people in the area use the light rail system daily and feel shaken by the news. Some are calling for clearer warning signs or barriers at tram stops to keep pedestrians safe. Others believe that more public education is needed to help people understand the risks around light rail vehicles. City officials have said they will review current safety procedures and consider possible changes. While accidents like this are rare, the community hopes that something can be learned from the incident to prevent another tragedy in the future.
Image Source: ABC News
