Hit-and-run victim’s father’s pursuit of justice: “Must one be deceased or paralyzed first?”

UPDATE on 28 April: Police say in response to a media query that the alleged driver in the incident was arrested, and investigations are ongoing. The Police also shared that they contacted the girl’s mother—most likely after the father’s post was made—to clarify the matter and update her on the status of investigations.

SINGAPORE: A father’s plea for justice reverberates across social media platforms as he shares the harrowing tale of a hit-and-run incident involving his daughter.

The story, accompanied by video evidence, was shared on the Facebook page ROADS.sg on Thursday (25 April), shedding light on the turmoil endured by Fong LY and his family in the aftermath of the tragic event.

Despite presenting compelling evidence, including video footage and witness statements, Fong LY expresses deep disappointment at the apparent inaction of the traffic police regarding the case.

The incident, which transpired on 4 January 2024, saw Fong’s daughter becoming the victim of a hit-and-run by a vehicle identified by the police number SNM1858B.

The severity of the situation is underscored by the video evidence, which captures the black car striking a person as it makes a turn.

Sharing his turmoil, Fong stated, “I’m posting this because I’m at my wit’s end.”

Despite the compelling evidence at hand, Fong laments the lack of decisive action by the traffic police.

Efforts to escalate the matter to higher authorities within the traffic police have yielded little response, according to Fong’s account, with a feedback manager only assuring that their concern would be forwarded to the relevant investigator.

Adding to the distress, Fong highlighted that despite the passage of several months, the driver in question had not filed a police report.

He alleged that the driver denied hitting his daughter, as conveyed to him casually by the investigating officer on 23 January 2024.

He further disclosed that the investigating officer suggested the driver file a report, highlighting the mandatory nature of such action and the need to indicate in the statement that no collision occurred.

However, Fong notes that their lawyer has faced obstacles in obtaining crucial details and paid reports from the traffic police.

Shedding light on hit-and-run victims’ struggles

Fong emphasized that sharing their story serves to raise awareness about the plight of victims who have been hit but not fatally injured or paralyzed.

He posed a poignant question, “Does a person have to be deceased or paralyzed before the police will bring about justice? Is this what the traffic law in Singapore is?”

Despite being victims, Fong highlighted the additional burdens they face, including attending psychiatrist sessions and enduring nightmares.

They must also navigate the arduous process of providing documentation to their lawyer, who then submits them to relevant organizations, prolonging the quest for justice.

The emotional toll of the incident is palpable, with Fong mentioning the sacrifices made by parents, including time away from work, and the enduring fear and haunting images of the accident that will linger throughout their lives.

Fong directly appeals to the driver of SNM1858B, urging them to shed their cowardice and take responsibility for their actions.

“Watch the video since you are in denial of what you have done,” Fong stated firmly.

Netizens rally behind father seeking justice for daughter in hit-and-run tragedy

Several netizens offered advice and support to Fong, acknowledging the distressing ordeal he and his daughter are enduring.

One user empathized with Fong’s plight, emphasizing the importance of persistence in following up with the traffic police and higher authorities to ensure justice and accountability.

Additionally, they suggested seeking assistance from advocacy groups or legal aid organizations specializing in such cases to navigate the process effectively and address concerns.

Another user voiced worry about the seriousness of hit-and-run cases, wondering why action is taken only when victims are severely hurt.

They pointed out that the victim, a student, was simply crossing a traffic light when hit by a reckless driver.

They tagged the Singapore Police Force, stressing the importance of removing dangerous drivers from the streets to prevent further harm.

Addressing Minister for Home Affairs and Law, K Shanmugam, another user, pleaded for intervention in the matter, expressing concern that the investigating officer’s alleged negligence is unjust given the availability of video evidence.

They cited a recent case where swift action was taken, underscoring the need for consistency in ensuring justice.

Furthermore, one user urged pedestrians to remain vigilant, citing the increasing frequency of accidents involving pedestrians being hit by drivers.

They emphasized the importance of caution and alertness, attributing such incidents to drivers’ distractions or pedestrians’ inattentiveness while crossing roads.