Driver of derailed tram ‘fell asleep’ at the wheel

A tram driver has told police he fell asleep on the job, allowing his carriage to speed around a corner and derail in Melbourne’s north-west.

Authorities were called to the intersection of Ascot Vale Road an Maribyrnong Road after the Route 82 tram derailed just after 12.20am.

The tram driver, a 49-year-old Sunshine man, was the only person on board and was not injured.

"Unfortunately, the tram driver has admitted to falling asleep at the wheel of the tram," Sergeant Jason Doyle told reporters.

"He's obviously approached (the intersection) at a speed that’s not able to handle the track."

No one else was injured in the crash, but power and water was cut to nearby homes.

“There was water spewing from a water main. I couldn’t tell if there were live wires down, so I stayed well back,” local man Matt said.

The tram driver, who has been suspended by Yarra Trams with pay, is expected to be charged with careless driving.

The union has since jumped to the driver’s defence, blaming changing rosters for his error.

“We’ve just come out of the Grand Prix, where all drivers’ rosters have been changed including the (driver) in question,” Phil Altieri from the Rail, Tram and Bus Union (RTBU) said.

Jereon Weimar, Public Transport Victoria CEO, said investigations are ongoing and “appropriate action” will be taken.

Anyone with information is being urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

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