A fatal accident inquiry has concluded that the death of a mechanic in Montrose was a tragic accident. Darius Zamylko, 44, died in April 2021 after being dragged under a van he was working on.
Mr Zamylko started the engine while lying beneath the vehicle, causing it to move forward and drag him across Ferry Road. He suffered a hypoxic brain injury and traumatic asphyxia, dying six days later at Ninewells Hospital in Dundee.
Witnesses Christopher Lyons and Peter Morton told the inquiry they saw the van moving slowly diagonally across the road before hitting a blue Ford Transit minibus. Mr Lyons sounded his horn but saw no one in the driver's seat.
Scottish Fire and Rescue used air bags to lift the van and free Mr Zamylko. An air ambulance was called but not used due to the risk of cardiac arrest.
Sheriff Jillian Martin-Brown made suggestions to prevent similar incidents, including starting engines only from the driver's seat with brakes applied and wheels chocked. She noted Mr Zamylko, as a self-employed person, had a legal duty to ensure his safety.
