SEMPORNA (Jan 13): A devastating accident along Jalan Kalumpang, Semporna-Tawau on Sunday claimed six lives, including an infant boy, after a car veered into the opposite lane and collided with two other vehicles.
According to Semporna police chief Supt Mohd Sabri Zainol, the tragic incident involved a Proton Wira carrying seven family members aged between six months and 82 years. The car, driven by a 34-year-old man, collided with an Isuzu D-Max four-wheel-drive (4WD) and a Toyota Innova multi-purpose vehicle (MPV).
The driver of the Proton Wira sustained severe injuries, while five passengers died instantly. Another passenger succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment at the Semporna Hospital emergency unit.
“The six fatalities include three males, three females, and an infant boy, all from the same family. The car was heading from Tawau to Semporna, while the 4WD and MPV were traveling from Semporna to Tawau,” said Supt Mohd Sabri in a statement.
Semporna Fire and Rescue station chief Madzlan Sarman added that a total of 15 individuals were involved in the accident. “Four passengers in the 4WD and another four in the MPV escaped unhurt. Seven fire personnel were dispatched to the scene after being alerted at 4.58pm. The operation concluded at 7.16pm after ensuring no further hazards,” he said.
The incident is being investigated under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. Police urge anyone with information about the accident to contact Insp A Hemkkumar at 012-3650021 or the Semporna District Police Headquarters at 089-782020.
This tragedy highlights the critical need for road safety awareness and caution, particularly on highways.
