A quiet family journey turned into a heartbreaking tragedy on a stretch of road near Gemas Baru, leaving a community shaken and grieving.
At approximately 4 PM yesterday (2 April), a van carrying five family members was travelling along the Jalan Johor Bahru–Seremban road when it was suddenly struck from behind by a trailer. The impact triggered a devastating multi-vehicle collision involving three vehicles, changing lives in an instant.
Lives lost, and families shattered
Three family members were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims, who included a husband and wife aged between their 20s and 70s, were confirmed deceased by medical responders who arrived shortly after the crash.
Two other passengers in the van survived the initial impact but sustained serious injuries. They were rushed to Segamat Hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment.
What makes this tragedy even more painful is the evidence uncovered by investigators. The trailer driver, a man in his 20s, tested positive for methamphetamine following a urine screening conducted after the accident.
In light of this discovery, authorities have reclassified the case under more severe charges, reflecting the gravity of causing death while driving under the influence.
Legal reclassification and charges
Segamat District Police Chief, Superintendent Mohd Jumazanzahir Chek Ismail, confirmed that the investigation, initially conducted under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, has been reclassified under Section 44(1)(a) of the same Act.
“The suspect is also being investigated under Section 15(1)(a) of the Dangerous Drugs Act 1952. Therefore, the police will apply for a remand order against the suspect at the Segamat Magistrate’s Court this morning,” he stated, as reported by Sinar Harian.
While Section 41(1) relates to causing death by reckless or dangerous driving, Section 44(1)(a) is a significantly more serious charge that applies specifically when a driver causes death while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Stay tuned to WORLD OF BUZZ as we keep you updated.
