Construction worker in serious condition after hit-and-run in Affton

Laborers Local 110 member Doug Hindle was two weeks away from retirement

By SHERI GASSAWAY

Correspondent

Doug Hindle, a 24-year member of Laborers’ Local 110 set to retire June 1, was critically injured on the job May 18 after a hit-and-run incident in Affton.

Hindle was working the overnight shift on a paving project near Heege Road and New Hampshire Avenue when he was struck about 12:45 a.m. by pickup truck that fled the scene, according to St. Louis County police. He was transported to a nearby hospital where he remained in critical condition. His condition has since been upgraded to “serious.”

“He was hit so hard, it tore his aorta,” said Don Willey, Laborers Local 110 business manager. “Not only was he hit, he was hit and run over by the truck. He has multiple broken bones, including arms, legs and ribs.”

Hindle, 55, was struck while he was directing traffic on the project, Willey said. “Standing out there holding the stop sign can be one of the most dangerous jobs our members do, especially during the overnight hours,” he added.

Willey described Hindle as a stellar union member who attends union meetings on a regular basis, gets involved in various functions and is always willing to lend a hand to his fellow union brothers and sisters. He is married with two children and a grandbaby on the way.

“He’s everything you’d ever want in a union member,” Willey said. “He’s an all-around good guy. We’re all praying for his recovery.”

The vehicle involved in the incident is described as a white extended cab pick-up truck. It has front end damage and may be missing a driver’s side headlight.  It was last seen traveling east on Heege Road and south on Mackenzie. Police do not have a description of the driver.

Anyone with information is urged to call the St. Louis County Police Department at 636-529-8210 or CrimeStoppers at 1-866-371-8477.