Crane driver killed in the Pilbara was a 'gem of a man'
A crane driver killed last month in WA's Pilbara region has been remembered as a "gem of a man" who loved nothing more than riding his motorbike and listening to music.
Adelaide man Martin Keyes, 55, died on the remote North West Coastal Highway on February 21, about 60 kilometres south of South Hedland.
The crash happened just before 11.30am when the large yellow mobile crane Mr Keyes was driving left the carriageway, rolled and caught fire.
The crane was destroyed in the crash and Mr Keyes, a father of two, died at the scene from his injuries.
His best mate of more than 40 years, Tony Mowbray, told WAtoday Mr Keyes was fanatical about British punk bands such as the Sex Pistols and the Clash.
"He liked to ride his motorbike and loved listening to music," Mr Mowbray said.
"He was a really good guy.
"Our parents worked together, my Dad worked with his Dad.
"He was a chef by trade, but he changed [careers] later in life to a steel-fitter and then a crane driver.
"He worked in Queensland and WA, South Australia as well."
Mr Mowbray said he spoke to his friend only a week before the crash.
"Its pretty distressing, its a shit deal he's been given," Mr Mowbray said.
"What can you do? Life goes on."
Mr Mowbray urged anyone who was in the region at the time to help police with their investigation.
"Even though it is pretty remote out there, hopefully someone saw something and they can come forward," he said.
Another friend Gerry Morris described the 55-year-old as a "gem of a man" who was taken too soon.
"It was pleasure to know you mate," Mr Morris said on social media.
Police believe Mr Keyes was driving the crane from Karratha to Newman, a distance of more than 600 kilometres, when the crash happened in the locality of Mundabullangana.
Major crash investigators are seeking more witnesses.
Detectives are especially keen to speak to a man, who possibly had a foreign accent, who stopped at the scene shortly after the crash happened.
It's believed he was first on the scene. The man is about 175cm tall, had short receding hair and an olive complexion.
Anyone else who may have seen the large mobile crane in the area or in the nearby town of Whim Creek should call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or make a report online.