A loving father of two believed to have died in a hit-and-run is being remembered by his heartbroken family as “a good guy” with a kind 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 was seriously injured and died at the scene, several hundred 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.
His aunt Pauline Donohue had to hold back tears when she told him that Mr Watson had gone to get milk.
‘I just woke up at 5am and because we all wanted coffee and there was no milk, Col and his mate said they would go to the shop and get some, but he never came back.’ told Nine News.
She admitted that her nephew was no angel.
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
“But he had a big heart. He was a good buddy,” Mrs. Donohue added.
“He helped everyone when they needed help. They just came to get him or asked him and he was there.”
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.
