MUAR, Johor – A devastating accident involving 11 vehicles claimed the life of a lorry driver on the North-South Expressway (NSE) near Pagoh on Saturday, August 23rd. The incident occurred at KM130, shortly after the Pagoh Rest and Treatment (R&R) area.

According to initial reports from the Muar Fire and Rescue Department, the crash involved a mix of cars, vans, and trucks. The lorry driver, whose identity is currently being withheld pending notification of next of kin, was pronounced dead at the scene. The severity of the accident necessitated the deployment of multiple emergency response teams, including firefighters and paramedics.

“We received a call about the accident at approximately [Time of Call] and immediately dispatched a team to the location,” stated a spokesperson from the Muar Fire and Rescue Department. “Upon arrival, we found a chaotic scene with multiple vehicles damaged and the lorry driver deceased.”

The exact cause of the 11-vehicle pile-up is still under investigation by the police. Authorities suspect that heavy rain and reduced visibility may have been contributing factors. The NSE at that stretch was temporarily closed to traffic while emergency services worked to clear the wreckage and investigate the scene. Significant traffic congestion was reported as a result, with motorists experiencing considerable delays.

Several other individuals involved in the accident sustained injuries, ranging from minor to serious. They were transported to nearby hospitals, including the Pagoh Medical Centre and the Muar General Hospital, for treatment. The number of injured individuals and the extent of their injuries are still being assessed.

Police are appealing to witnesses who may have information about the accident to come forward and assist with the investigation. They are particularly interested in any dashcam footage that may have captured the events leading up to the collision. The investigation aims to determine the precise sequence of events and identify any potential contributing factors beyond the weather conditions.

This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, particularly during inclement weather. Drivers are urged to exercise caution, reduce speed, and increase following distances when visibility is impaired. Regular vehicle maintenance and adherence to traffic regulations are also crucial in preventing accidents and ensuring the safety of all road users.

The authorities have advised motorists traveling on the NSE to plan their journeys accordingly and allow extra time for travel, especially during periods of heavy rain. Updates on traffic conditions and road closures can be obtained from the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM) website and social media channels.

Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.