Driver in Tampines chain collision that killed 2 gets over 12 years' jail, banned from driving for life

A Singaporean driver, Muhammad Syafie Ismail, 45, was sentenced to 12 years and nine months in jail and banned from driving for life after causing a fatal chain collision in Tampines. The collision occurred on April 22, 2024, when Ismail, traveling at speeds between 129kmh and 134kmh, ran a red light and crashed into multiple vehicles.

The accident killed a 17-year-old student and a 57-year-old woman, severely injured three others, and hurt five more people, including children. The crash also resulted in significant financial losses for the damaged vehicles. Syafie pleaded guilty to three charges, including dangerous driving causing death, causing grievous hurt, and causing hurt.

Although he could have received a 30 percent discount for pleading guilty, the judge reduced the sentence by only 15 percent due to the gravity of the case. Principal District Judge Toh Han Li emphasized the need for a substantial sentence and the public interest in avoiding a trial, given the emotional trauma endured by the victims and their families.