64-year-old vendor succumbs to injuries after crash at Tunas Regency intersection in Batam
Awod (64) died after a tragic crash in Batam’s Tunas Regency. The viral case sparked calls for safer roads and enforcement.
A Sudden Crash, A Life Lost
A tragic accident claimed the life of Awod (64), a resident of Sagulung Baru, following a collision at the busy Tunas Regency intersection in Batam on Thursday, June 19, 2025. He died two days later on Saturday night, June 21, at 19:21 WIB after intensive care in the ICU of RSUD Embung Fatimah.
The crash, which occurred at noon, involved Awod’s motorcycle and an unidentified vehicle. He suffered severe injuries, including a metal mirror rod piercing his right eye. Despite immediate medical intervention, his condition continued to deteriorate, preventing emergency surgery. His death was confirmed by Elin, spokesperson for RSUD Embung Fatimah.
Eyewitnesses and Initial Rescue
The crash happened as Awod attempted to cross during a light change at the Simpang Fanindo junction on Jalan Brigjen Katamso. Simultaneously, a truck carrying sand reportedly sped through a fresh green light, leading to the deadly collision.
Coincidentally, Batam Mayor Amsakar Achmad was passing by and witnessed the scene. He, along with Lurah Sei Binti, Jamil, immediately assisted. The victim was transported using a pickup truck, as nearby witnesses struggled to remove the metal rod lodged in his face.
Victim Was Well-Known Vendor
Awod was a familiar face around PT Nippon Tanjunguncang, where he sold bottled water from his motorcycle cart. According to Lurah Jamil, Awod was heading home for Ashar prayer when the crash occurred. Known for his devout religious practice and active role in the community, he is survived by his wife Ira, while all his children are reportedly married.
The late vendor’s death has resonated across Batam, especially in his neighborhood, where he was respected as a kind and diligent community member.
Pattern of Dangerous Driving Emerges
The incident added to a growing list of road accidents in Batuaji and Sagulung districts, many of which are linked to reckless driving, particularly against the flow of traffic. Just days before Awod’s crash, a separate accident involving two motorcycles occurred near the Satpol PP office, reportedly caused by a wrong-way rider at high speed.
Local authorities report that such behavior is becoming increasingly frequent, placing pressure on the Department of Transportation (Dishub) and police to act decisively.
Police and Public Demand Safer Roads
Batuaji Police Chief, AKP Raden Bimo Dwi Lambang, confirmed intensified patrols at accident-prone intersections. “We are committed to continuous monitoring and urge the public to obey traffic laws for everyone’s safety,” he said.
Residents are calling for stricter enforcement and infrastructure improvements, including road dividers and traffic cameras, to curb violations and prevent further loss of life.
Awod’s tragic death underscores the urgent need for traffic discipline and infrastructural reform in Batam. As urban traffic intensifies, both drivers and authorities must work together to uphold road safety. The incident is a solemn reminder of how a moment of recklessness can end a life and devastate a community.
Sources: Batam Pos (2025) , Tribun Batam (2025)
Keywords: Batam Crash, Tunas Regency Accident, Road Safety, Traffic Collision, Victim Awod, Sagulung Incident
