Driver of Tow Truck Is Killed
Police on Saturday were investigating an accident on the Ventura Freeway that took the life of a Thousand Oaks tow truck driver who was aiding a stranded motorist.
Richard Morris, 38, was killed instantly when the driver of a 1999 Honda Accord drifted onto the shoulder, striking him as he hooked a stalled car to his truck.
A spokesman for the California Highway Patrol declined to identify the driver but said he told officers that he was changing radio stations when he veered from the right lane.
The accident happened at 9:55 p.m. Friday on the southbound side of the freeway near Moorpark Road.
Morris, who grew up in Simi Valley, was the father of four sons, ages 8 to 18. “Losing him was bad enough, but at least he passed away doing what he loved. He loved towing--that was just Rich,” said Larry Andrews, manager of Roy’s Towing in Thousand Oaks.
An employee for about three years, Morris was known for going out of his way to help customers, Andrews said.
A memorial fund is being planned.
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