SIBU: A tragic road accident claimed the life of a 16-year-old student after the motorcycle he was riding on skidded and was run over by a lorry at Mile 8, Jalan Ulu Oya near SK Ulu Sungai Merah on Wednesday evening.
The incident, which occurred at around 3pm, involved a motorcycle carrying two teenagers and a lorry driven by a 37-year-old man. The accident has once again raised concerns over road safety involving young motorcyclists in Sarawak.
According to Azari Miskon, police received information regarding the accident at approximately 3.15pm before a team of officers was immediately dispatched to the scene for further investigation.
Initial investigations revealed that the lorry was travelling from Kemuyang towards Sungai Merah, while the motorcycle was heading from Desa Satria towards Kemuyang. During the journey, the motorcycle reportedly skidded before the victim was run over by the heavy vehicle.
The 16-year-old victim was confirmed dead at the scene by an Assistant Medical Officer at 3.22pm due to severe injuries sustained in the crash. His body was later transported to the Sibu Hospital Forensic Unit for a post-mortem examination.
Meanwhile, the 18-year-old rider of the motorcycle survived the incident but suffered injuries to his right finger and left leg. He was believed to have received medical treatment following the accident.
Police have yet to release the identities of both teenagers as investigations are still ongoing. Authorities are also working to determine the exact cause of the incident, including whether weather, road conditions, or speed were contributing factors.
The case is currently being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for causing death by reckless or dangerous driving.
Road accidents involving motorcycles continue to be a major concern across the country, especially among teenagers and young adults. Many fatal crashes are linked to loss of control, lack of experience, and failure to follow road safety regulations. The latest tragedy serves as another painful reminder for all road users to remain alert and cautious at all times.
Police have advised motorists to drive carefully, especially on busy roads and during peak traffic hours, to prevent further loss of lives on Malaysian roads.
