The family of a loving father believed to have died in a hit-and-run accident has broken their silence with a broken heart.
Colin Watson, 36, was out to collect milk in Kingaroy in Queensland’s South Burnett region at around 5am on Tuesday when he was allegedly struck from behind by a black Mercedes, which then fled the scene.
Mr Watson suffered serious injuries and could not be resuscitated at the scene, hundreds of metres from his home.
Another 27-year-old man, believed to have been walking with Mr Watson, was taken to hospital as a precaution.
Police later found a Mercedes at an address in nearby Taabinga, where they arrested a 30-year-old man. No charges were filed have not yet been laid.
Pauline Donohue had to hold back tears as she told how her nephew Mr Watson had gone to get milk so his family could have coffee in the morning.
“He was a good buddy,” Mrs. Donohue said told Nine News.
‘He helped everyone when they needed help, they just came to get him or asked him and he was there
Colin Watson, 36, died after being hit by a car in Kingaroy, Queensland, at 5am on Tuesday
Police were largely present at the scene of the alleged collision on Tuesday
Police have launched an investigation into the ‘absolutely tragic’ death of Ms Watson.
The police have not yet ruled out that speed was a possible factor.
It is not known whether Mr Watson and the alleged driver knew each other.
“We are open at this time as to how this happened,” Detective Scott Stahlhut told reporters.
“There is nothing at this point to suggest that was a factor, but driving style is certainly an important consideration in what we are looking at now.”
Detectives and forensic investigators were on site for much of the day inspecting the rubble.
“Evidence has been collected at the crime scene and we have the vehicle in question, which we will investigate further,” Inspector Stalhut said.
Colin Watson is remembered as a ‘good mate’ who would always help everyone
Mrs Watson’s death has shocked the community.
“Oh my god, that’s so sad. That was probably his daily walk too. That’s the last thing you would ever think would happen when you’re out exercising. His poor family,” one local told the Courier Mail.
South Burnett Mayor Kathy Duff called the death an “absolute tragedy” and offered her condolences to the family.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the police.