Young woman killed in serious workplace incident at Autotow Services on Sundercombe Street, Osborne Park

A female tow truck driver was killed early Tuesday while unloading a damaged car from a tilt-tray truck at an Osborne Park tow yard.

Worksafe WA is investigating the 29-year-old woman’s death, which happened before 6am at Auto Tow Services in Sundercombe Street.

Police rushed to the yard about 5.40am and were confronted with a rescue situation, working to free the trapped woman.

Firefighters and St John Ambulance then attempted first-aid but she died at the scene.

A heavy police presence remained in the area throughout the morning, as grief-stricken members of the public arrived and were seen comforting each other.

Inside the yard, people congregated near a damaged car in the towing yard that was believed to have been involved in the tragic mishap. The car remained on the back of the partially tipped tow truck, held in place by straps.

An Autotow Services spokesperson told The West Australian the 29-year-old was a “much loved” member of their staff.

“This is a tragic loss for our team, she was much-loved here, and our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones,” they shared in a brief statement.

Police on Tuesday described the woman’s death as a “workplace incident” and WorkSafe has confirmed an investigation is underway.

“The woman was reported to have been unloading a car from a tow truck tilt tray when the fatal incident occurred,” a Worksafe spokesperson said in a statement.

Its investigators arrived about 8.45am after being notified of the incident by police and were spoke to several people inside the facility.

“WorkSafe investigators thoroughly examine the circumstances of incidents with a view to ensuring compliance and preventing future incidents of a similar nature,” the spokesperson said.

“WorkSafe Commissioner Sally North relayed her sincere condolences to the woman’s family, friends and colleagues.”

The Transport Workers Union’s WA branch is also investigating the incident.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.