THE Wednesday 4.30am V/Line bus service from Albury to Adelaide, stopping in Swan Hill, was a harrowing experience for two locals after a fellow Swan Hill-bound passenger passed away during the trip.
The man in his 50s, originally from Queensland, was found deceased at Echuca.
Police believe the man did not die of suspicious circumstances, however have put out a plea to local residents to help identify the man.
“He had a lot of pre-existing medical conditions, his medical records indicated that he was not a well man,” Echuca Police Senior Sergeant Mick Carroll said.
“Police attended, but we found he has no next of kin that we can identify at this stage.
“Really all we found was his suitcase with some fishing rods and clothing — we don’t know if he was heading up to [Swan Hill] to meet someone or go fishing.
Local residents John Strauss and his travelling partner Janet Field were on the same service.
“Janet was the last person to exchange a friendly ‘hello’ with him before he settled down into his lonely oblivion,” Mr Strauss said.
“I have never liked long bus journeys.”
Mr Strauss speculates that the man was of Aboriginal descent, travelling from Benalla to Swan Hill, perhaps to attend a funeral.
If you were expecting company from a man meeting this description, please contact Echuca Police on 5428 2255.
