Wrong-Way Collision on MEX Kills E-Hailing Passenger, Military Officer Arrested
KUALA LUMPUR: A fatal accident on the Maju Expressway has claimed the life of a 22-year-old e-hailing passenger after a car allegedly driven against traffic collided head-on with a multi-purpose vehicle early Thursday.
Police said the driver responsible, a 31-year-old military officer, is believed to have been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. A breathalyser test conducted at the scene showed that his blood alcohol level exceeded the legal limit.
Kuala Lumpur Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief Mohd Zamzuri Mohd Isa said initial investigations indicate that the suspect’s vehicle had veered into the opposite lane, resulting in the high-impact collision.
Victim among passengers from KLIA
The e-hailing vehicle was transporting two Bangladeshi passengers who had just arrived from Kuala Lumpur International Airport.
The male passenger, aged 22 and seated in the middle row, suffered severe head injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. A 20-year-old female passenger sustained injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at Hospital Kuala Lumpur.
The 41-year-old e-hailing driver also sustained head injuries in the incident.
Several others injured
The suspect reportedly suffered minor injuries, while a 36-year-old woman travelling in the same vehicle was also hurt. All injured individuals were taken to Hospital Kuala Lumpur for further medical attention.
Authorities confirmed that a urine test on the suspect returned negative for drugs.
Investigation under drunk driving law
The military officer has been detained, and the case is being investigated under Section 44(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which covers driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs causing death.
Police said further investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Heightened concerns over reckless driving
The crash has reignited public concern over dangerous driving behaviour, particularly incidents involving wrong-way driving on major highways.
Road safety experts note that such accidents often result in severe consequences due to the nature of head-on impacts at high speeds.
Authorities have reiterated calls for motorists to exercise caution and strictly adhere to traffic regulations, warning that enforcement actions will be taken against offenders.
-wilayah.com.my
