A 3-year-old boy dies at a relative’s funeral after being run over by a bus. Source: ST
For most of us, it is only natural that we support our loved ones by grieving with them when they have just lost a close family member. But imagine how painful it would be if you, as a parent, end up losing your child to a tragedy that unknowingly happened while attending the funeral itself.
That was exactly what Jayshri Ramasary had to go through last Sunday, 22 December 2013 at Lim Chu Kang Cemetery.
Double tragedy for the family
Boy dies at relative’s funeral: The bus driver was not even aware of it until the boy’s mother knocked the door frantically. Source: ST
According to a report in The Straits Times, Jayshri was at the cemetery with her 2 young sons – aged 3 and 5 – to pay her last respects to her sister’s father-in-law.
Jayshri was holding her 5-year-old son with her left hand, and her 3-year-old son with her right to cross the road. However, she had to let go of her younger son’s hand momentarily to attend to her older son, who was tying his shoelaces.
While the coffin was being lowered into the ground, a loud sound was heard. The commotion had led the group of 50 relatives and friends who attended the funeral to turn around and investigate the source of the noise.
Horrifying realisation
Moments later, everyone was greeted by the horrific sight of 3-year-old Kryshan under the left wheel of a private bus, which was hired to ferry family and friends to and from the cemetery.
The most shocking thing was that the driver was not even aware of what happened until Jayshri knocked frantically on the bus door and pointed to the wheels.
The 3-year-old boy died at the scene, and the 48-year-old bus driver was arrested for causing death due to negligence.
Read the next page for the rest of the story of this young boy’s death at his relative’s funeral.
Safety precautions for everyone
Boy dies at relative’s funeral: “My sons have always been safe crossing bigger roads with me.” Source: ST
What happened to 3-year-old Kryshan was shocking and heart-wrenching. Apart from mourning the loss of a relative, the parents are also grieving over the death of their child whom they have just lost in a tragic accident.
In an exclusive interview with The Straits Times, Jayshri said: “My two sons have always been safe crossing bigger roads with me. I would not have let go of my sons’ hands.”
Cases like this serve to remind us that life is precious and that it is important to be vigilant while being on the go – be it during family holidays or while making your way from one place to another on any other day. Always be aware of your surroundings and do try to avoid areas where big vehicles tend to pass through. It may also be worthwhile to set some ground rules with your kids to keep them safe on the streets.
Condolences to the family
Our deepest condolences go out to Jayshri Ramasary and the whole family for the loss of her youngest son, Kryshan. May the love of those around help to comfort the family now and in the days ahead.
