Police have named a breakdown recovery driver who was killed when his lorry toppled over while he was trying to pick a van from a ditch.
Robert Garvock was killed after responding to a crash at about 4.30am on Saturday morning on the B999 Aberdeen to Potterton road, near Udny Station.
The 68-year-old, who worked for Kairdson Group, was trying to lift a Pitmedden Electrical Services van from the bottom of an embankment.
It is understood that the truck toppled over on top of him while he was operating the controls from the road.
Police, fire service and paramedics were all called to the scene but the man died from his injuries.
A statement released by his family said: “Robert was well-respected by his colleagues and loved by his family. We are extremely grateful for all the support that has been shown to us by members of the public at this very sad and difficult time.
“We would ask that our privacy is respected as we come to terms with our loss.”
The road was closed for several hours yesterday while collision investigators examined the scene.
Detective Inspector Norman Stevenson said: “Our thoughts are with Mr Garvock’s family at this very sad time.
“Our enquiries are still ongoing to establish the full set of circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and we are working closely with the Health and Safety Executive.
“We have spoken to several people already as part of our enquiries however I would still be keen to speak to the driver of a white Ford Transit van who I believe was in the area at the time and may have witnessed the incident on Saturday morning. I would ask that if you see this appeal and recognise yourself as the driver to please get in touch as soon as possible on 101 quoting ref. no. 0547 of Oct 27.”
A Health and Safety Executive investigation has also been launched.
The closure caused major disruption north of the city for much of the day.
The congestion was exacerbated because a section of the A90 Aberdeen to Fraserburgh road was closed for re-surfacing.