MIRI: A six-year-old girl succumbed to her injuries nine hours after a tragic accident involving a pickup truck and a lorry on Friday evening (Aug 30).
The crash, which occurred on the Miri-Bintulu stretch of the Pan Borneo Highway also claimed the life of her father, who died on the spot.
Her mother is currently receiving treatment at Miri Hospital for serious injuries sustained in the collision.
Miri Police chief ACP Alexson Naga Chabu disclosed the details in a press statement on Saturday afternoon (Aug 31).
According to him, the accident happened at approximately 6:12 pm, on Aug 30, when the Toyota Hilux, driven by the girl’s 31-year-old father, collided with a 10-tonne lorry.
The lorry, driven by a 48-year-old man, was reportedly making a P-turn on the highway when it collided with the Hilux, which was travelling from Batu Niah.
The impact of the collision caused severe damage to both vehicles, with the Hilux sustaining extensive damage.
“The father was pronounced dead at the scene, while his daughter, who was rushed to Miri Hospital, fought for her life for nine hours before she was declared dead at 3:39am the following day. Her mother, who was also a passenger in the Hilux, remains in critical condition at the hospital,” Alexson said.
The lorry driver sustained only minor injuries.
Authorities have opened an investigation into the accident under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which deals with causing death by reckless or dangerous driving.
Alexson urged motorists to exercise caution when driving, especially on highways where heavy vehicles are present.
