Singapore mourns loss of 17-year-old Temasek JC student in Tampines multi-vehicle crash

SINGAPORE: The loss of 17-year-old Afifah Munirah Binte Muhammad Azril, a first-year student at Temasek Junior College, deeply mourned by family, schoolmates, and the community, following her tragic passing in the Tampines multi-vehicle crash on Monday morning.

The fatal accident at the junction of Tampines Avenue 1 and Tampines Avenue 4, occurring at 7:07 am on Monday (22 April), resulted in eight hospitalized individuals, including two 11-year-olds.

As per Shin Min Daily News, among the deceased is a 17-year-old junior college student, while the other victim is identified as a female passenger in a van. Both succumbed to their injuries after admission to the hospital.

Ms Afifah Munirah's uncle, Mr Firdaus Kassim, confirmed her passing on Monday afternoon.

He also revealed that Afifah's father, involved in the accident, has undergone surgery and is currently hospitalized.

"We seek your prayers and understanding in these difficult times," he wrote.

Enrolled at Temasek JC

According to Chinese media Lianhe Zaobao, Ms Afifah, a first-year student at Temasek JC, was described as academically excellent and cherished by her family.

Accompanied by her father to a school running event on the morning, their journey was tragically cut short when a Black Saab, running a red light at the intersection of Tampines Avenue 1 and Tampines Avenue 4, collided with their vehicle, causing it to overturn—the most severely damaged among six vehicles involved.

Principal Liu Earnler of Temasek Junior College expressed deep sorrow over Afifah's passing.

He stated, "The school has been in touch with the family of the student and will render additional support to students and staff who may be affected by this incident during this difficult period."

In Primary 6, Afifah Munirah Muhammad Azril served as the head prefect at Meridian Primary School in Pasir Ris.

Cedar Girls' Secondary School celebrated her accomplishments in an Instagram post on 9 February, highlighting her graduation and numerous awards, including the Service Award, Good Character Certificates, and the EAGLES Award for leadership and service.

On Tuesday, Cedar Girls' Secondary School conveyed condolences to Afifah's family, recognizing her as an outstanding graduate and esteemed leader within the Girl Guides community.

Han Zirui, Afifah's teacher, shared heartfelt sentiments about the deceased, praising her kindness, leadership, and service to her peers.

She highlighted her resilience in overcoming challenges and her deep respect for teachers and others. Han recalled feeling proud when Afifah informed him of her acceptance into Temasek JC, expressing ongoing pride in her.

"My dear angel, rest in peace. I will always remember your smile and the sound of your laughter. You are dearly missed."

Netizens call for investigation and stricter penalties for reckless drivers

Observing comments on Singapore's state media, many netizens express sadness upon hearing the news, offering condolences to the deceased's family.

Additionally, some call for authorities to investigate the culprit behind the fatal accident and advocate for heavier punishment for reckless drivers.



As reported by 8World News, police have stated that a 42-year-old male driver is currently assisting with investigations into the accident.

Footage captured from multiple dashboard cameras revealed the events leading up to and following the accident.

A black Saab was observed attempting to overtake a white Mercedes on Bedok Reservoir Road.

The Mercedes was struck when the Saab attempted the manoeuvre.

Subsequently, the Saab was observed disregarding a red light as it proceeded through the junction.

Meanwhile, the Mercedes successfully came to a halt at the red light.

Footage depicting the collision showed the Saab colliding with several vehicles either travelling straight along Tampines Avenue 1 or making a left turn onto Tampines Avenue 4.

Among these vehicles were one that overturned, another that appeared to have collided with a lamppost, one that struck a divider, and a mini-bus and van facing in the opposite direction.

The Singapore Civil Defence Force reported utilizing hydraulic rescue equipment to extricate the individual’s trapped leg from beneath the car wheel.

Several members of the public, including a nurse and two off-duty SCDF officers, assisted the injured following the accident, according to SCDF.

CPR was administered to two individuals at the accident site.

The police earlier stated that the accident involved four cars, one truck, and one minibus.