A tragic incident in Singapore has led to the charging of an Indonesian maid following the death of four-year-old Zara Mei Orlic, who was fatally struck by a car while crossing a road. The 32-year-old maid, Lilyana Eva, faced the court on 6 November 2024, accused of causing grievous hurt by performing a rash act.
Details of the Incident
The unfortunate events unfolded on 23 January 2024, shortly before 5pm, when Lilyana allegedly allowed Zara to cross the road at an unsignalised junction without holding her hand. As a result, Zara ran into the path of an oncoming car, sustaining severe injuries.
According to court documents, the driver, a 40-year-old Australian woman, was unable to see Zara, who stood at just 1 metre tall—clear visibility was blocked by nearby stationary vehicles.
Court Findings and Insights
Coroner Eddy Tham, in his findings from July, noted that Lilyana was carrying school bags and looking after Zara’s younger sister at the time. The driver, who did not exceed typical speeds, reported a sudden impact when Zara dashed across the road.
- Zara was pronounced dead later that evening due to head injuries.
- Lilyana began working for the Orlic family in October 2023.
- Police investigations emphasized the importance of caregiver vigilance when crossing roads with young children.
Legal Implications
If convicted, Lilyana faces a potential sentence of up to four years in prison and a fine of up to S$10,000. During the latest court session, she expressed her intention to appoint a lawyer, potentially through the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme, with her next court appearance set for 13 November 2024.
A Reflection on Road Safety
This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity for caregivers to ensure the safety of young children in busy environments. As Coroner Tham aptly pointed out, children often lack awareness of road dangers and must be closely supervised.