A WOMAN critically injured in a serious crash on the East Coast Expressway 2 (LPT2) near Dungun on Friday has died in hospital, turning what was initially reported as a severe injury case into a fatal road accident.
Maziah Che Hassan, 57, succumbed to her injuries at 7.15 pm while undergoing emergency treatment at Hospital Dungun, several hours after the Proton X70 sport utility vehicle in which she was travelling lost control and crashed.
Acting Dungun District Police Chief Deputy Superintendent Jumaidy Bah Chong Weh said the accident occurred at approximately 5.15 pm at Kilometre 341.5 of the LPT2 near the Paka Rest and Service Area (R&R).
The vehicle, carrying five occupants, was travelling from Kuala Terengganu towards Kuantan. The group was understood to be returning home after attending a wedding ceremony in Kuala Berang.
“Upon reaching the location near the Paka Rest and Service Area (R&R), the driver is believed to have fallen asleep while driving, causing the vehicle to lose control while negotiating a bend.
“The incident caused the vehicle to crash into a metal road barrier, spin several times and eventually become lodged against the barrier,” he said in a statement on Saturday.
The violent impact left Maziah trapped inside the vehicle and caused devastating injuries, including the traumatic severing of her left leg.
Emergency responders were forced to carry out a rescue operation to extricate her from the wreckage before she was rushed to Hospital Dungun.
The driver and three other passengers sustained only minor injuries and were also taken to the same hospital for further treatment.
Police are investigating the incident under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987, which relates to causing death by reckless or dangerous driving.
Following the tragedy, Jumaidy urged motorists to prioritise road safety by ensuring they obtain adequate rest before long journeys, adhere to speed limits and ensure their vehicles are maintained in a safe and roadworthy condition.
The latest fatality has renewed concerns over fatigue-related crashes on long-distance highways, particularly during periods of increased travel when motorists often undertake lengthy journeys after attending family and social events. - June 6, 2026
See video here https://www.facebook.com/reel/1010644461891126
