SINGAPORE: In a heart-wrenching incident that unfolded on Wednesday (11 Oct), an outing with friends turned into a nightmare as an 84-year-old man accidentally ran over two of his companions with his SUV in front of the open-air carpark of Block 3A, Toa Payoh Lorong 8, opposite Block 210 Food Centre. The unfortunate accident occurred at approximately 8 am.
The three friends had planned to embark on a trip to Johor Bahru, eagerly anticipating their day ahead. Tragically, as they prepared to set off, the driver of the SUV, the 84-year-old man, inadvertently pressed the accelerator instead of the brake, causing a sudden, violent collision with the two friends waiting at the roadside.
The incident prompted an immediate response from the public, who had gathered at the nearby food centre. Witnesses described the shocking impact, with the SUV appearing to “bounce” off the ground before coming to rest on the sidewalk. The force of the collision was so severe that it left both victims lying unconscious on the ground, bleeding profusely.
First responders administered CPR in an attempt to revive the injured men. However, despite their valiant efforts, the victims remained unresponsive and fell into a severe coma.
The two men, identified as 76 and 83 years old, were sent to Tan Tock Seng Hospital for treatment. Tragically, despite the tireless efforts of medical staff, both individuals succumbed to their injuries and passed away at the hospital.
The driver has been arrested on charges of causing death by driving without due care. The police’s inquiries into the tragic accident are ongoing.
According to a street vendor from the food centre, the three friends were regular patrons who often frequented the establishment for coffee. The vendor claimed the trio had made arrangements to visit Johor Bahru. However, this tragic turn of events occurred before their journey could even begin.
The accident left a chilling scene at the location, with the black SUV parked on the sidewalk, a damaged electronic notice board, and a pool of blood serving as grim reminders of the horrifying incident.
The community is left in shock and mourning, as the loss of these two elderly friends has left a deep impact on their acquaintances and the residents of Toa Payoh Lorong 8. Police investigations are ongoing.