SINGAPORE: A comical evening turned chaotic on Saturday, 5 July 2024, when a woman was injured after a bottle was thrown at an SMRT bus travelling along the bustling Orchard Road. This incident has raised eyebrows and caused concern among the public, particularly regarding safety on public transport.
Incident Report
The double-decker bus service 190 was cruising along the popular shopping district at around 6.45 pm when, in a surprising turn of events, a bottle struck its upper-deck window, creating a spider web-like crack. According to Vincent Gay, deputy managing director of SMRT Buses, the bus captain quickly brought the vehicle to a safe stop and ensured the safety of all passengers.
Casualty Details
- A 57-year-old female passenger suffered injuries from the incident.
- She was taken conscious to Raffles Hospital for further medical attention.
- All other passengers were safely transferred to an alternative bus.
Immediate Response
Following the incident, the police and Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) were alerted at approximately 6.50 pm. Witnesses reported an atmosphere of panic as passengers on the upper deck were evacuated and the area cleared out.
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the bottle-throwing incident. SMRT stated that they are cooperating with the police, and it has been noted that a young couple had just exited the bus when the male threw the object without apparent reason, striking the woman inside.
Public Reactions
Social media has been abuzz with reactions, raising questions about the durability of the bus windows and the nature of the object. Comments like, “What kind of object could create a hole that big in the glass?” have surfaced, reflecting public concern on safety standards amidst such incidents.
According to reports, the scene occurred right outside The Heeren, a notable shopping hub, and has sparked conversations about safety in public areas. Authorities are urging anyone with more information to come forward.