Fatal BKE Crash Claims Lives of Motorcyclist and Pillion Rider – Details and Updates
In a tragic turn of events early on Tuesday morning (Jan 21), a motorcyclist and his pillion rider lost their lives in a devastating accident along the Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE) in Singapore. The incident occurred towards the Pan Island Expressway (PIE) before the Kranji Expressway (KJE) exit, sending shockwaves through the community.
Details of the Accident
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) swiftly responded to the scene following an alert around 5.40am, where they discovered a collision involving a motorcycle and two lorries. Tragically, a 52-year-old male motorcyclist and a 41-year-old female pillion rider were pronounced dead by an SCDF paramedic. The police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.
Videos circulating on social media captured the aftermath of the accident, depicting a stationary white lorry on the first lane of the expressway, alongside the two victims lying on the ground near the vehicle. The haunting scenes of bystanders gathered around the bodies serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of life.
Subsequent Hit-and-Run Incident
Adding to the morning’s tragedies, another hit-and-run incident involving two motorcycles unfolded near the initial accident site. The police reported being alerted to the case along BKE towards PIE at approximately 6.30am, with a 24-year-old male rider sustaining injuries and requiring hospitalization at Woodlands Health Campus. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the sequence of events leading to this second calamity.
Impact on Traffic and Public Transport
The repercussions of these accidents reverberated across the transportation network, causing significant traffic congestion and delays for commuters. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) issued warnings of heavy traffic leading up to the Woodlands Checkpoint during the morning peak hour, advising motorists to steer clear of the affected lanes on the expressway.
Bus operators also felt the ripple effects, with services such as 171, 963, 966, 856, 161, 168, and 138 experiencing delays due to the traffic backlog from the incidents. Tower Transit and SBS Transit kept passengers informed via social media updates, offering insights into the disruptions and subsequent return to normal operations by noon.
As we reflect on these unfortunate events, let us remember the importance of road safety and vigilance while navigating our daily journeys. Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones of the victims, hoping for strength and solace during this challenging time.