Singapore – A routine airport drop-off ended in tragedy for a 66-year-old Singapore taxi driver who was crushed between his own cab door and a parked lorry. The heartbreaking case has now come before the courts.
According to a news report by Shin Min Daily News, Tee Chin Teong lost his life in the early hours of Feb 24, 2025, along Jalan Besar Road. A coroner’s inquiry into his death was opened on Sept 24, with his wife, son, and daughter present in court.
How the Accident Happened
Tee had picked up two passengers from Changi Airport and driven them to their home near The Noble Hotel. Around 12.50am, he stopped the cab to help them unload their luggage.
An employee at the hotel witnessed what followed. As Tee opened the driver’s door and placed his right foot on the road, the taxi suddenly rolled forward. Investigators believe he had forgotten to shift the gear into park while rushing to assist his passengers.
Here’s how the situation unfolded:
- The moving taxi struck the left rear of a lorry parked in front.
- The impact forced the door inward, trapping Tee’s head and upper body between the door and door frame.
- One of his passengers rushed over, reached inside, and shifted the gear from drive to park, finally stopping the vehicle.
By the time paramedics arrived, Tee was still pinned. He could not be saved.
Cause of Death
An autopsy determined that Tee died mainly from traumatic asphyxia and severe facial injuries caused by the crushing force of the door.
An Experienced Driver
For many in the Filipino community here, stories like this hit close to home, as so many of us rely on cabbies during late nights and early airport runs.
Tee was no newcomer behind the wheel. Court heard that he had:
- Held a driving license for 42 years
- Worked as a taxi driver for 12 years
An investigating officer from the Ministry of Manpower told the court that overwork was unlikely to be a factor. Tee had only been on the job for about an hour before the accident happened.
What Happens Next
The coroner will record the official findings at a later date. For now, the case stands as a sobering reminder of how quickly a small oversight can turn deadly.
Our thoughts are with Tee’s family during this difficult time.