Tragic End for Homeless Man Sleeping in Industrial Bin
A 30-year-old homeless man met a tragic end after being crushed to death inside a refuse lorry while sleeping in an industrial bin in Northampton town centre.
Sajmir Beca, identified as a rough sleeper, suffered fatal injuries during the early hours of October 31 on Wellington Street when the bin he was sleeping in was collected and emptied into a Veolia refuse truck.
Emergency Response and Medical Outcome
Emergency services rushed to the scene around 3am after the refuse truck driver discovered the horrifying situation and raised the alarm.
Harrowing video footage circulating on social media showed the victim's upper body visible among bags of waste in the back of the bin lorry.
Mr Beca was transported to University Hospital Coventry where he battled his injuries for several days before succumbing on November 6.
Inquest Findings and Investigation
Senior coroner Anne Pember opened the inquest into Mr Beca's death on Wednesday, November 19 at the Guildhall in Northampton.
The medical cause of death was confirmed as multiple organ failure due to multiple crush injuries to the pelvis and lower limbs.
The North and West Northamptonshire coroner has adjourned the full inquest until April 29, when statements from Mr Beca's brother and police investigators will be heard.
Community Response and Safety Warnings
Northamptonshire Police confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding the death and have prepared a report for the coroner.
Homelessness charity Project 16:15 confirmed Mr Beca was known to their organization, emphasizing the importance of their Tuesday Night Team fundraiser to provide shelter for rough sleepers during Christmas.
Waste contractor Veolia, which manages commercial bins in the town, expressed being 'deeply saddened' by the incident and offered condolences to the victim's loved ones.
A Veolia spokesperson highlighted the increased risk during winter months, stating: "Sadly, in the winter months we see an increase in the number of people taking shelter in bins. We will continue to work with colleagues and clients to raise awareness of this."
