Surrey recorded its first traffic fatality of 2013 when a man was pinned between his pickup truck and a tree on Sunday afternoon.

It happened in the 6200-block of 132A Street. Police have not released the 50-year-old victim's name.

"It appears the male was backing his pickup truck along the driveway of his residence, with the driver's door partially open, when he came into contact with a tree and was pinned between the tree and his pickup," Surrey RCMP Cpl. Bert Paquet said.

"It is unfortunately a tragic reminder that such accidents can occur even in very close proximity to your own home."

Paquet said witnesses tried to save the man before the ambulance arrived.

"An autopsy is being completed to determine the exact cause of death."

tzytaruk@thenownewspaper.com