Lorry driver admits jumping out of vehicle before fatal toll crash

The crash, involving two SUVs, a car and a three-tonne lorry, took place at the Bukit Kajang toll plaza yesterday morning. (Fire and rescue department pic) PETALING JAYA: The lorry driver involved in yesterday's fatal accident at the Bukit Kajang toll plaza admitted that he jumped out of the vehicle, but claimed he had done so only because the brakes had failed.

Kajang police chief Naazron Abdul Yusof said the 42-year-old man made the admission when questioned, Berita Harian reported.

He said the lorry driver has been remanded for two days to assist in the investigation.

"In addition to the driver under remand, police have recorded statements from five other individuals, including his employer, who also owns the lorry," he was quoted as saying.

Naazron also said the lorry had been sent for inspection.

"Records show the vehicle underwent maintenance last April.

An investigation is ongoing to determine whether the crash was caused by brake failure or by other factors," he said.

Following the lorry driver's arrest yesterday, Naazron had said the suspect had a criminal record with three cases related to drug and criminal offences, as well as four summonses for traffic violations in 2013 and 2016.

He said the man's urine test came back negative for drugs and alcohol, and the case is being investigated for reckless or dangerous driving causing death.

The incident, which also involved two SUVs and a car, claimed the life of a one-year-old child.

An adult man who was pinned under the same SUV was rescued and taken to hospital.

The remaining seven injured victims were also sent to hospital for treatment.