Driver of truck that hit and killed sports journalist Sam Landsberger to face court over blood sample refusal
The driver behind the wheel of a truck that hit and killed prominent sports journalist Sam Landsberger will face court after he refused to provide a blood sample.
Landsberger, 35, was hit by a truck at the intersection of Bridge Rd and Church St in Richmond, Melbourne on Tuesday morning.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Driver behind wheel of truck that hit and killed Melbourne sports journalist to face court
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.He was rushed to hospital with life-threatening injuries and later died.
The truck driver, a 45-year-old man, stopped at the scene and underwent roadside alcohol and drug tests, which were both negative, police confirmed on Wednesday.
However, when police asked the driver to provide a blood sample he allegedly refused.
He was charged on summons and “immediately” served a notice banning him from driving, police said.
The driver will appear at Melbourne Magistrates Court on September 19.
“The death of the 35-year-old pedestrian continues to be investigated,” police said.
A report will be prepared for the coroner.
It is understood Landsberger was crossing the road on his way to work when he was hit.
The award-winning writer’s death sent shockwaves through the sports media community, with colleagues at the Herald Sun, where he worked as an AFL and cricket reporter, remembering him as a talented journalist.
“Sam Landsberger had an enormous future in journalism who took giant strides early on,” Herald Sun chief football writer Mark Robinson said.
“He loved the game and understood it and he respected his craft.
“He was such a valuable member of Melbourne’s sports journalism world, someone who could cover all aspects of footy. And people trusted him.”
Herald Sun editor Sam Weir said Landsberger’s death was a “devastating loss”.
“He was well-loved and well-respected and had an incredible career ahead of him,” Weir said.
“Our thoughts go out to his family.”
Landsberger also appeared on Fox Footy’s Midweek Tackle.
In 2022 he won the Sports News Quill for his story on Essendon’s then chief executive Andrew Thorburn resigning after one day over links to a controversial church.
Anyone who witnessed the incident on Tuesday or has any dashcam or CCTV footage has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers.
