The elderly woman who slipped into a coma after a collision with an e-scooter has died, confirmed the police on Wednesday (25 September).
Mdm Ong Bee Eng, 65, was riding home on her bicycle at about 10.30 pm in Bedok North on Saturday (21 September) when she was knocked down by a 20-year-old on a personal mobility device (PMD). The elderly woman suffered fractures to her ribs and collarbone and serious brain injuries, leaving her in a coma since the incident. She was admitted at Changi General Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit.
The young male rider who collided with Mdm Ong was initially arrested for causing grievous hurt by rash act. Given the latest development, the police are now investigating the case as causing death by rash act.
PAP Kaki Bukit Branch Chairman Mr Shamsul Kamar described the passing of Mdm Ong as “unfortunate” and hoped that the community can stay united to address the issue holistically
He said on Facebook, “my grassroots leaders will continue to work with all parties, especially LTA, on the plans and endeavours we set out in 2017”.
Presumably, he is referring to the enhanced regulations on PMD use that were introduced in 2017 including a weight limit of 20kg on PMDs as well as bicycles and power-assisted bicycles. The regulations also stipulated that the width of those devices should be 70cm or less and the speed limit is capped at 25km per hour to be used on public paths.
Mr Kamar continued, “But we will do more and work on a ground-up effort with residents and local stakeholders to make our pathways safer.”
He then urged the PMDs users to exercise caution, ride responsibly, and be cognisant that pathways are shared spaces. He further cautioned them to not modify their devices or use ones that are non-compliant with the regulations.
