Council worker killed in bin lorry crash named at inquest

The 28-year-old passed away at the scene in Torquay

Carl Eve Crime Reporter 06:00, 12 Jun 2025

A 28-year-old man who died after he became crushed between a lorry and a wall has been named at inquest.

The brief hearing, which took place on June 9 at the Exeter County Hall, saw the coroner identify Sam Evans, who passed away following the incident on Higher Warberry Road, Torquay on May 27.[1][2]

At the time the police confirmed that they had been called to the scene at around 12.45pm and that a male had died following a collision between a white bin lorry and a member of the crew. As a result the Health and Safety Executive were informed of the incident.

Torbay Council[3] later issued a tribute to the worker.

They confirmed that he worked for SWISCo, who undertake waste management service on behalf of Torbay[4] Council. They stated how their "thoughts and deepest condolences are first and foremost with the individual's family, friends, and colleagues at this incredibly difficult time. We are doing everything we can to support those affected and are in contact with the family providing any assistance they may need."

They added: "The safety and wellbeing of our teams is our highest priority, and we are fully cooperating with the authorities as they investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

We ask for patience and understanding as we work through the details."

The leader of the council, Cllr David Thomas, said at the time: "I am deeply saddened to hear that one of our SWISCo waste crew members passed away following this tragic incident. My condolences and thoughts are with the family, loved ones and our colleagues at this very difficult time. This incident has been deeply upsetting for the family and all our colleagues, and we ask that the community is mindful of the impact this will be having on them over the coming days and weeks."

During the short hearing, the coroner noted that Sam was born in Slough and resided at a property in Newton Road, Torquay[5].

They stated: "Police and paramedics were called to a road traffic collision where a man was reported to be trapped between a vehicle and a wall.

The male was identified as Mr Evans. Despite best efforts, Mr Evans was pronounced at the scene."

They confirmed that a post mortem was carried out and a police investigation was still underway

On the present evidence, the medical cause of death was given as internal bleeding and blunt force trauma.

The hearing was adjourned and a full inquest will take place at a later date.

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References

1. ^ Exeter (www.devonlive.com)
2. ^ the incident on Higher Warberry Road, Torquay on May 27. (www.devonlive.com)
3. ^ Torbay Council (www.devonlive.com)
4. ^ Torbay (www.devonlive.com)
5. ^ Torquay (www.devonlive.com)
6. ^ https://chat.whatsapp.com/EZ3uVo2cbF15UPDIXLXRKn (chat.whatsapp.com)
7. ^ https://bit.ly/41EZjzx (bit.ly)