In a heartbreaking incident on January 30, a 12-year-old girl lost her life after being struck by a van along Yuan Ching Road in Taman Jurong, a community mere minutes away from two schools. The van driver, a 23-year-old man, was subsequently apprehended by the police on charges of careless driving causing death, according to The Straits Times.
The victim, a student commuting home from Yuvabharathi International School, met with the accident near a bus stop on the opposite side of the road.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) swiftly responded to the distress call, indicating the severity of the situation. The fatal accident unfolded on Yuan Ching Road at approximately 3:50 pm. Despite the paramedic’s immediate intervention, the young schoolgirl was pronounced dead at the scene.
Eyewitness Testimonies
Residents in the vicinity recalled the distressing moments surrounding the accident. Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise, prompting them to look out of their windows to witness the aftermath. The young girl was found on the ground, with a pair of school shoes and a pink bag scattered near the crash site.
According to reports from Shin Min Daily News, the accident occurred as the girl was heading towards a bus stop. Observers described the scene, noting blood flowing from the girl’s head following the tragic incident. Despite the swift response of Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) paramedics, the 12-year-old was declared dead at the scene.
The emotional impact of the accident was evident as the victim’s mother arrived at the scene. Overwhelmed upon learning of her daughter’s passing, the grieving mother expressed her anguish toward the blue tent covering the girl’s body. The mother fainted twice, necessitating transportation to the hospital for medical attention.
School’s Reaction and Road Safety Measures
Yuvabharathi International School, situated in close proximity to the accident site, promptly reacted to the tragedy. School staff rushed to the scene upon receiving the news, and the school is providing support to the victim’s parents. To raise awareness about road safety, the school deploys six staff members around the perimeters during the evening dismissal period.
As a tribute to the young girl who lost her life, the school opted to suspend classes on January 31.
Driver’s Perspective
Eyewitnesses also observed the 23-year-old driver involved in the accident. Visibly distressed, the young man was seen sitting in the van with his head in his hands and later seated by the road with reddened eyes. Authorities transported him away in a police vehicle around 7 pm.
In response to inquiries about the collision, the driver’s father stated that his son couldn’t avoid the girl, who allegedly dashed onto the road.
Video source: SGRoad Blocks / Traffic News on Telegram