TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The 78-year-old driver involved in a fatal traffic accident in New Taipei City’s Sanxia District has died from his injuries, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital confirmed on Saturday.
The man, surnamed Yu (余), was hospitalized following the May 19 incident in which he reportedly ran a red light and struck a group of pedestrians, mostly students, near Bei Da Elementary school. The crash left three dead and 12 injured, including Yu, per CNA and PTS.
Despite undergoing multiple surgeries and receiving intensive care, Yu died Saturday morning due to multiple organ failure.
Yu’s death complicates the ongoing criminal investigation. Attorney Huang Po-jung (黃柏榮), who is not involved in the case, explained that prosecutors are legally obligated to drop the charges, as criminal proceedings cannot continue after the suspect's death.
Legal experts and authorities are now turning their focus to civil compensation for the victims and their families.
New Taipei City officials have stated that compensation claims will not be affected by Yu’s death. Whether or not his heirs choose to renounce the inheritance, his estate remains subject to civil claims.
The city government is coordinating with the Association of Victims Support to help the affected families apply for provisional seizure of Yu’s assets, ensuring their rights to seek damages are protected.
As of Saturday, four students remain hospitalized, including one in intensive care.
In response to public concern over pedestrian safety, the city’s Transportation Department announced plans to install physical speed bumps and protective railings along the sidewalks near the crash site within three months.
The hospital has reported the case to prosecutors and police, and the judicial investigation remains ongoing. Further proceedings will be conducted in accordance with legal procedures.
