TAWAU: A mother and her two sons died, while her 15-year-old daughter sustained serious injuries after their vehicle veered off course and collided with a palm tree at Batu 14, Jalan Apas, here on Monday.
The incident occurred around 9:30 AM, resulting in the deaths of three victims aged 50, 30, and 28 at the scene, while the teenage girl suffered severe injuries to her ribs and abdomen.
Tawau District Police Chief, ACP Rosdi Mat Jusoh, stated that the family was traveling from Kampung Bahagia, Sandakan to Tawau city when the accident happened.
He mentioned that the car, driven by a 28-year-old man, reportedly lost control while navigating a straight road before veering off to the left shoulder.
“The vehicle then crashed into the palm tree, skidded for about 60 meters before overturning.
“The three victims were confirmed dead at the scene at 10:16 AM, while the surviving teenager was taken to Tawau Hospital for treatment in the Red Zone,” he said in a statement.
Rosdi noted that initial checks revealed the driver did not possess a valid driving license.
He added that the vehicle was seized for PUSPAKOM inspection, and the bodies of the three victims were sent to the Tawau Hospital Forensic Unit for autopsy.
The police are also seeking independent witnesses to assist in the investigation under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987.
He reminded the public to adhere to traffic regulations, speed limits, and ensure they have a valid driving licence.
