BUKIT MERTAJAM: The driver involved in the fatal container accident here has been charged with reckless driving at the Magistrate's Court.
Marhizan Johari, 51, pleaded not guilty to the charge before Magistrate Mohd Harith Mohd Mazlan on Monday (Nov 18) at the Bukit Mertajam Court.
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He was charged with driving a trailer dangerously along Jalan Kebun Sireh in Bukit Mertajam at around 9.30am, which resulted in the death of 21-year-old Lee Zi Rou.
The charge was made under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for causing death by reckless or dangerous driving.
Marhizan was unrepresented, while Deputy Public Prosecutor Zulfadzly Hassan prosecuted the case.
Mohd Harith set Jan 24, 2025, for the case mention.
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Mohd Harith did not allow bail based on DPP Zulfadzly stating that the case was of public interest and that Marhizan had shown no remorse for his actions, having shown the "peace sign" when he was brought to court to be remanded earlier this week.
It was reported on Sunday (Nov 17) that Marhizan would face charges after his remand ended.
Central Seberang Perai district police chief ACP Helmi Aris said the driver was detained for further investigations under the same section of the Road Transport Act 1987.
Marhizan was involved in a fatal accident at Jalan Bukit Tengah last Wednesday (Nov 13), which claimed the life of Lee, who was crushed by a cargo container.
Lee, a clerk, was driving to work when the trailer driver lost control during a left turn, causing the container to topple and crush her car.
The container also hit another car, driven by Tan Chou Theng, 25, who was rescued by passers-by and is currently hospitalised with serious injuries.
Lee was laid to rest on Sunday (Nov 17), with hundreds, including family and friends, attending to pay their last respects.