A devastating traffic accident that occurred on May 19, 2025, in New Taipei City’s Sanxia District has left the community shaken. The crash, caused by a 78-year-old driver surnamed Yu (余), resulted in three deaths and 12 injuries, including children on their way to school. As of May 26, authorities have yet to question Yu, who remains in intensive care and is reportedly still unconscious.
Details of the Incident
According to New Taipei City Police Commissioner Liao Hsun-cheng (廖訓誠), Yu’s vehicle ran a red light at high speed near the intersection of Xuecheng Road and Guocheng Street, not far from an elementary school. Eyewitnesses described the incident as chaotic and terrifying, with the vehicle plowing through scooters and pedestrians without slowing down.
Casualties
- 3 people died, including a parent walking their child.
- 12 others sustained injuries, some critically.
- Several of the injured were schoolchildren.
Driver Still Unfit for Interrogation
The driver, Yu, is being treated under intensive care. Due to his serious medical condition, investigators are unable to obtain a statement, as questioning requires full cognitive awareness for the testimony to be legally admissible in court.
Despite the delay in obtaining a direct statement, prosecutors are actively building a case through:
- Surveillance footage
- Eyewitness accounts
- Forensic vehicle analysis
- Medical and driving history reviews
Public Concerns and Government Response
In the aftermath of the crash, the public has voiced strong concerns over elderly driving regulations in Taiwan. While Yu reportedly had a valid driver’s license, critics argue that routine cognitive testing for elderly drivers may be insufficient or infrequent.
To address safety concerns, the New Taipei Police Department announced:
- Automated traffic law-enforcement systems will be installed at the intersection by end of July.
- Speed cameras and red-light sensors will be prioritized near school zones.
- The city council will explore mandatory annual checkups for drivers over 75 years old.
Broader Implications
This tragedy has reignited a national conversation on road safety, aging drivers, and the need for modernized urban traffic infrastructure.
Taiwan has seen an increase in elderly-related traffic accidents in recent years, raising questions about:
- The adequacy of refresher driving courses for seniors
- The ethics of revoking licenses based on age-related health risks
- Introducing AI-powered driving assistance in urban areas
If reforms are implemented, this could mark a turning point in how Taiwan balances individual mobility rights with public safety, especially in pedestrian-heavy areas near schools.
Community Mourning and Memorials
Residents in Sanxia have turned the accident site into a makeshift memorial, lining the roadside with:
- Flowers
- Children’s snacks
- Candles and offerings
Parents, educators, and neighbors have held vigils and spoken publicly about the urgent need for reforms to prevent further loss of innocent lives.
FAQs
Who was responsible for the Sanxia car crash?
A 78-year-old man surnamed Yu is believed to have caused the crash by running a red light. He is currently hospitalized and unfit for questioning.
How many people died and were injured?
Three people were killed, and 12 others sustained injuries, including pedestrians and scooter riders near an elementary school.
What caused the crash?
The exact cause is still under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest reckless driving or a possible health episode behind the wheel.
What actions are the authorities taking?
Automated traffic enforcement will be installed at the crash site, and reviews of elderly driving license policies are being considered.
Could this have been prevented?
Many believe better intersection control and stricter health evaluations for elderly drivers could have reduced the risk of such an incident.
