Investigators Conclude Driver Responsible for Fatal Sanxia School Crossing Incident

Sanxia: Investigators have determined that the driver involved in a tragic accident at a school crossing in Sanxia, New Taipei, was fully aware of his actions and not influenced by any external factors. The incident, which occurred on May 19, resulted in the deaths of three individuals and injuries to 12 others. The driver, a 78-year-old man surnamed Yu, succumbed to his injuries and died in the hospital on May 31.

According to Focus Taiwan, the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office confirmed there were no mechanical failures in the vehicle Yu was operating, nor any external impediments to safe driving. Investigations revealed that Yu was neither under the influence of alcohol or drugs nor suffering from any medical conditions at the time of the crash.

Prosecutors emphasized that Yu was in a "clear headed" state, with no involvement in traffic disputes, and maintained normal physical and mental health. Analysis of Yu's dash cam footage indicated he was driving at speeds up to 104.6 kilometers per hour, with erratic maneuvers like swerving and veering.

The footage also showed he did not apply brakes during the incident, nor were any sound alerts detected on the recording. Despite his familiarity with the area, including the narrow lanes and school dismissal time, Yu persisted in driving dangerously without braking even after colliding with a traffic island.

Prosecutors concluded that Yu's actions demonstrated an awareness of the potential for causing harm or death, as he consciously disregarded the associated risks. Although he was found to have committed "murder with indirect intent," the case was legally closed without an indictment due to Yu's death.