Justice Served: Speeding Driver Jailed for Horrific Hit-and-Run Incident

In a shocking display of negligence and cowardice, 37-year-old Koh Chew Wa, a director of an interior design firm in Singapore, has been sentenced to one year in prison for causing the tragic death of a young pharmacist, Davin Ng Min You, on the night of October 29, 2022. Koh's reckless driving not only resulted in a fatal collision but also saw him flee the scene instead of helping the victim.

Incident Details

The incident unfolded around midnight when Koh, speeding in his Mercedes-Benz between 70 km/h and 97 km/h—well above the 50 km/h limit—struck Mr. Ng, who was jaywalking near a signalized junction. Eyewitness footage from the accident revealed the horrifying moment when Mr. Ng noticed Koh's vehicle approaching and attempted to run across the road, only to be violently flung into the air upon impact, landing lifelessly on the pavement.

Koh's Negligence and Aftermath

Despite the obvious severity of the situation, Koh failed to stop and render assistance. Instead, he and a friend left the scene without looking back. Shortly after, Koh arranged for his car to be towed to a workshop, where he attempted to conceal evidence of the crash by initiating repairs on the vehicle. His actions were described by prosecutors as "cowardly" and "deplorable."

Previous Incidents and Court Proceedings

The case took a turn when Deputy Public Prosecutor Matthew Choo revealed that Koh had previously faced a fine for speeding just a month before the fatal incident. This track record of reckless behavior only underscored the gravity of his actions on that fateful night.

Mr. Ng's Tragic Fate

Tragically, Mr. Ng succumbed to his injuries at Singapore General Hospital later that morning, having sustained a severe brain injury along with multiple fractures. Although a toxicology report indicated he may have consumed alcohol before the collision, the amount was deemed low and did not contribute significantly to the accident.

Defense and Court's Ruling

In his defense, Koh's lawyer argued that Mr. Ng had misjudged the distance and decided to jaywalk at the last moment. However, the court emphasized Koh's significant role in the tragic event. Not only did he neglect his responsibility as a driver, but he also attempted to obstruct justice by covering up the crash.

Sentencing and Broader Implications

As part of his sentence, Koh has been disqualified from driving for eight years following his release from prison. This case serves as a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of irresponsible driving and the importance of accountability on the roads.

Community Response and Advocacy

In addition to the year-long jail sentence, Koh's actions have sparked a broader conversation about traffic safety and pedestrian rights in Singapore. Advocates are calling for stricter penalties for reckless driving and better infrastructure to protect pedestrians in urban settings.

Legacy of Mr. Ng

The loss of Mr. Ng, a promising young pharmacist, has left a void in the lives of his loved ones and the healthcare community. The outcry for justice continues as people demand that such tragedies not be repeated in the future.