The “popular” Amazon driver who was crushed to death after his delivery van was stolen has been named and photographed for the first time.
Claudiu Carol Condor, in his 40s, was found seriously injured by West Yorkshire Police at about 6.50pm yesterday in Heights Drive, Wortley, Leeds.
Police say the victim delivered a package to an address about half a mile away at about 6.45pm and returned to his van, where a man tried to steal the package.
When he tried to stop them, they drove off at a high speed with the victim half seated in the passenger door of the car. Officers arrived and found the victim unconscious. Passers-by tried to help him. He was given first aid by paramedics but was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident a short time later.
Mike Neal, operations manager at SP Transport Group, paid tribute to his “beloved colleague” Claudiu on a GoFundMe page. Mr Neal wrote: “We are all devastated by this unimaginable loss. Claudiu was more than just a colleague – he was a friend, confidant and a valued member of our team.
“We will never forget the dedication he gave to his work and the friendship he brought to the workplace.” The impact of this tragedy reaches far beyond our workplace and affects everyone who was privileged to know Claudius.
“We are launching this GoFundMe campaign to support Claudius’ family during this incredibly difficult time. Our goal is to ease some of the financial burden they face, including funeral expenses, legal fees and other unforeseen issues that may arise. No amount of money can fill the hole left by Claudius’ death, but we hope to provide some comfort and support to his loved ones.
“We understand this is a difficult time for everyone and we appreciate everyone’s contribution, whatever it may be. All donations will go directly to Claudius’ family to help them through the difficult days ahead.
“Please consider making a donation to pay tribute to Claudius’ memory and support his family at this heartbreaking time. If you are unable to contribute financially it would mean a lot to us if you could share this campaign with your networks.”
So far more than £2,345 has been raised towards the £750 target.
Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle, investigating chief inspector, said: “As a courier.
“His family have been informed and are completely shocked by what has happened. “We are doing all we can to support them at this really difficult time and provide them with the answers they need.
“We have spoken to a number of witnesses and are keen to hear from anyone who witnessed any part of this incident. This appeal covers the circumstances around the theft of the van on Alliance Street at about 6.45pm, his movements along Heights Drive to where the victim was found, his movements as he fled the scene and his movements until it was discovered abandoned at Highlands Walk in Belle Isle, approximately nine miles away.
“We are particularly keen to hear from anyone who may have witnessed the suspect in the van following the theft or when it was abandoned and we appeal for anyone who was in the vicinity to come forward.” We will be checking dashcam, doorbell and home video surveillance footage of this incident to see if anything has been captured which may assist our investigation.
“It is understandable that people are appalled by the death of this man in these circumstances and we want to reassure them that we are fully committed to finding those responsible.”