Face surgery after ute fall
A MAN who suffered serious head injuries when he fell from the back of a ute at Campbell Town will require facial surgery as the hunt for the driver continues.
Tasmania Police and Ambulance Tasmania were called to reports of an injured man on High St, near the intersection of Bridge St, about 12.10am on September 22.
A 27-year-old man was taken to the Launceston General Hospital for treatment.
Inspector Philippa Burk yesterday said the ute had only travelled about 30m from the local football club following a 50th birthday party when the man fell on the road.
“The man who was injured was discharged from hospital last week, so he’s really been quite fortunate,” she said.
“He suffered some facial fractures, which are going to require surgery and further treatment.
“Quite clearly, it could have been a lot worse but having said that, this sort of behaviour is still concerning and we do want to speak to the driver of the vehicle to get a clearer picture around exactly what’s happened.”
Inspector Burk said the injured man had provided a statement to police but his memory of the episode was unclear.
The vehicle was described as a white 4WD ute with tool boxes or dog boxes on the rear.
“We have had some information come in,” Inspector Burk said.
“We’re also looking through CCTV in the area and it’s surprising where you might find those, a lot of people have them.
“We believe there was at least one other occupant in the cab and it would certainly be more in their favour if they did come forward.
“There’s a range of offences the driver may or may not have committed, but until we speak to them, we can’t work that out.”
In July, a 34-year-old man suffered significant injuries after falling from the tray of a ute on Bartley Street, Hadspen.
At the time police said it appeared the man had been standing in the tray and had fallen to the road.
Police are seeking witnesses to the incident or anyone who may have information which may assist in the identification of the driver or vehicle.