In a heartbreaking incident on Dec. 23, 2023, a 75-year-old man in Boon Lay reportedly suffered a severe accident involving a rubbish truck near Boon Lay Shopping Centre, according to Shin Min Daily News.
The aftermath of the incident led to a 16-day hospital stay, with the man’s condition rapidly deteriorating, eventually prompting his family to make the difficult decision to take him off life support.
As investigations unfold, the family is seeking witnesses to shed light on the circumstances surrounding the alleged accident.
The Accident
The elderly man, on his way home from Boon Lay Shopping Centre, was allegedly struck by the rubbish truck while using a zebra crossing to reach the bus stop opposite.
The family learned about the incident from a passerby who had attended to the injured man, leading to a call to the man’s daughter, Cai Liling, and his son.
Following the accident, the man was promptly taken to the hospital, where he underwent surgery for fractures in his left hand and hip.
However, tragedy struck on Jan. 4, when he experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. Despite resuscitation efforts, his health rapidly declined, prompting the family to make the heart-wrenching decision to take him off life support.
Family’s Grief and Memories
Cai Liling described her father as a cheerful and energetic individual who eagerly looked forward to celebrating Chinese New Year and his upcoming birthday. His hospital stay was marked by a persistent hope for a swift recovery to join his family in the festivities.
In the quest for answers, the family is appealing to witnesses or anyone with footage of the incident to come forward.
The cleaning company, responsible for the rubbish truck, has initiated an investigation but has yet to provide a clear explanation to the grieving family. The family expressed dissatisfaction with the driver’s actions and the delayed reporting of the incident.
Company’s Explanation and Investigation
The operations manager of the cleaning company, surnamed Lin, stated that the company is actively investigating the matter.
However, they require additional time to obtain relevant camera footage from authorities before offering a comprehensive explanation to the family.
The company confirmed their awareness of the incident through the Town Council and reported that the involved employee has been brought in to file a police report.