The coroner’s court has released new findings on the River Valley accident that led to the death of a four-year-old girl earlier this year. On January 23, Zara Mei Orlic was fatally hit by a car turning into Institution Hill from River Valley Road. In the turn of events, Zara was rushed to Singapore General Hospital, where she later passed away due to a severe head injury.
Investigations led by Inspector Muhammad Firdaus Suleiman from the Traffic Police revealed the car was not exceeding the speed limit as it navigated the turn where the incident unfolded. Zara’s parents had previously advised their maid to use a prescribed route with signalized crossings to fetch Zara and her sibling; however, the route taken was against this advice, and no signs were in place to indicate that pedestrian crossing was prohibited at Institution Hill.
Legal representatives for both Zara’s family and the driver were present during the inquiry. It was noted that Zara, who was walking ahead, was not holding the maid’s hand at the time of the accident. The driver involved was on her way home after collecting her children from school. She did not spot Zara before the collision, becoming aware of the tragedy only after feeling the impact.
Car camera footage showed Zara appearing a second before the accident, with the maid several steps behind her. The footage indicated the driver’s view was likely blocked by stationary cars. There was no evidence to suggest the driver was distracted at the time of the accident.
The decision on potential prosecution lies with the Attorney-General’s Chambers, pending the outcome of the coroner’s final report due on July 5. The driver’s identity remains undisclosed during proceedings, keeping the focus on the facts of the case.
As the community awaits the conclusion of the inquiry, the incident serves as a somber reminder of road safety’s importance.
