SARATOK, Nov 5: An Indonesian man lost his life after being hit by a four-wheel drive vehicle at Kilometer 418.1 of the Pan Borneo Highway near Simpang Saratok, this morning.
Saratok District Police Chief, DSP Mathew Manggie, said the fatal incident occurred at about 11.27am when the victim, believed to be a pedestrian, was struck by a Toyota Hilux driven by a 25-year-old salesman from Sibu.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the driver was heading towards Kuching when the victim suddenly crossed the road. The driver was unable to avoid the pedestrian in time,” he said in a statement issued today.
The impact of the collision caused the victim, a farm worker, to sustain severe head and body injuries. He was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.
DSP Mathew added that the driver of the Hilux was unharmed. Weather conditions were reported to be clear, and the road surface was dry at the time of the crash.
“The body of the victim has been sent to Saratok Hospital for post-mortem and further identification process. The case is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for causing death by reckless or dangerous driving,” he said.
The incident serves as another tragic reminder of the dangers faced by pedestrians, particularly along major highways such as the Pan Borneo, where vehicles often travel at high speeds. Authorities have repeatedly urged the public to use designated crossing points and remain vigilant when near busy roads.
Meanwhile, police are continuing their investigations to determine the full circumstances surrounding the accident.
