Timorese man dies after vehicle accident

A Timorese man has died and another remains in hospital after a motor vehicle accident involving ADF members of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Timor Leste yesterday afternoon.

At around 7.00pm local-time on Thursday, 28 April 2011, a motorbike, carrying two Timorese men, collided with an ISF Land Cruiser in Dili.

The two Timorese men on the motorbike sustained serious injuries, were treated at the scene and transported to Dili hospital where one of the men later died.

Acting Chief of Joint Operations Rear Admiral Ray Griggs said the accident was now under investigation by the Timor-Leste National Police (PNTL).

“On behalf of the ADF, I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family of the man who has unfortunately died in this very sad incident,”Rear Admiral Griggs said.

“ISF officers have already spoken with the families of both men involved in the accident and will work closely with Timorese authorities over the coming days to ascertain exactly what occurred.”

Three ADF personnel were travelling in the ISF Land Cruiser at the time of the incident.

One ISF member sustained superficial injuries during the collision and has received medical treatment.

Another ISF member involved in the accident was admitted to the ASPEN medical facility for monitoring but later released.

The vehicle was travelling west along Comoro Road, near San Miguel College, when the accident occurred.