Supporters have been quick to rally behind the family of heavy haulage truckie Luke Vella, who passed away in a WA work accident on Monday.
A GoFundMe page set up by Heather Gillespie has already raised more than $40,000 to help Luke’s fiancé Bec and their four children, all under the age of 10.
The high school sweethearts had been together for 15 years and were planning to get married in March.
The NSW father died after two trucks collided at the intersection of Agnew-Leinster Road and Agnew-Vivien Road in Leinster about 4.20pm on Monday, October 21.
The driver of the other truck was not hurt, according to reports.
“Luke was the family’s breadwinner, working tirelessly to give Bec and their kids the life they deserved,” writes fundraiser organiser Heather Gillespie.
“As they navigate this unimaginable loss, we want to ensure that Bec and the children have the support they need during this incredibly difficult time.
“The investigation into Luke’s accident may take upwards of seven weeks due to medical examinations, and with the accident happening in Western Australia, we are currently left in the dark.”
Heather said any donation, no matter how small, is gratefully received and will go directly to supporting Bec and her children as they face the challenges ahead. Click here to help.
“We are unsure when insurance funds will be released, but our priority is to ensure that Rebecca and her family do not need to worry about finances at this time so they can focus on healing and getting through each day.”
The wider trucking community was quick to pay tribute to Luke on social media.
“Bloke was one of a kind and always there to help no matter what and always answered the phone when you needed him. Just a good solid bloke in and out of the truck!,” one truckie wrote.
Police inquiries into the accident are ongoing and anyone with information regarding the crash should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online here.
If you or anyone you know has been affected by a road crash, contact Road Trauma Support WA on 1300 004 814.