Lambton: Father of two dies in tragic accident at home in Newcastle, NSW

A popular father of two children died in a bizarre accident while working on his car.

Johnathan O’Neill, 49, was tinkering with his vehicle on the driveway of his home in Lambton, Newcastle in the Hunter region of New South Wales on July 13 when the car slid off the ramp and ran him over.

The craftsman, who worked as a steelworker, was pulled out from under the car by paramedics but could not be saved.

His devastated family, who have so far raised more than $3,500 for his funeral, said his death was “very sudden and heartbreaking.”

He will be remembered as a loving father, brother, uncle and son.

“Johnathan was loved and cared for by many people,” his nephew Luc Holmes told 7News.

“He was a great guy who liked to help others, no matter what the situation.”

“Our family is definitely struggling with this sudden and traumatic loss.”

Mr O’Neill was also an avid Brisbane Broncos fan and named his dog after his beloved NRL team.

Mr Holmes also thanked everyone who supported the family and donated.

“We are very grateful for all the support and help that people have given us during this terrible time,” he wrote on the fundraiser.

“We would like to thank everyone for the support we have received and for the kindness they continue to show us.

“We appreciate the kindness and generosity of the community and want everyone to know that their support and condolences do not go unnoticed.”

Police are investigating Mr O’Neill’s death and a report will be prepared for the coroner.

In 2019, the Australian Consumer Protection Agency warned that 120 Australians had died while attempting to repair their own cars.

“Tragically, many people, including some experienced mechanics, have been crushed and killed under their cars while working,” said Mick Keogh, deputy chair of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

Mr Keogh, who revealed that most deaths occurred among men aged between 40 and 49, advised people to only work on cars on level ground and never lie under a car supported only by a jack.

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