A Heartbreaking Incident Unfolds

In a shocking turn of events on September 2, a rare sambar deer lost its life on the Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE) after being struck by not one, but two motorcycles in the dead of night. The accident occurred around 12:54 AM, and while the motorcyclists involved escaped unharmed, the fate of the deer was tragic.

Caution Urged Near Forested Areas

The National Parks Board (NParks) was alerted to the accident and dispatched a team to the scene. Unfortunately, by the time they arrived, the deer had succumbed to its injuries. Mr. How Choon Beng, NParks’ group director for wildlife management, emphasized the critical need for drivers to exercise caution in areas adjacent to forests, especially where there are signs warning of animal crossings.

A Disturbing Visual

A video circulating on social media showcases the horrific moment the deer was first hit by one motorcycle and then struck again as it lay helplessly on the road. Miraculously, a third motorcyclist narrowly escaped colliding with the lifeless creature.

What to Do in Similar Situations

Mr. How urged the public to avoid attempting to handle injured wildlife and instead contact NParks’ 24-hour Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600 for immediate assistance.

A Vulnerable Species at Risk

The sambar deer is categorized as a vulnerable species on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) Red List of Threatened Species, indicating a heightened risk of extinction in the wild. The loss of such creatures underscores the importance of awareness and responsibility among motorists in environmental areas.