Man Involved in Drug-Driving Crash Causing 1 Death, 2 Injuries Flees Scene, Indicted by Changhua Prosecutors

A 46-year-old man, identified as Mr. Chen, is accused of using heroin and methamphetamine on November 18th of last year in Shetou Township, Changhua County. He then drove a white sedan with a passenger to a hospital. After dropping off the passenger, he was heading to a friend's house when, around 1 PM, at the intersection of Xinyi Street and Yuánlù Road in Yuanlin City, he rear-ended two motorcycles stopped at a red light. The female rider, Ms. Gao, fell after being hit. Chen allegedly did not stop to check on her but instead ran over her with his vehicle's front and rear tires before fleeing. Ms. Gao sustained severe injuries and later died. The other motorcycle, carrying Ms. Zhang and passenger Ms. Xiao, also crashed, resulting in minor injuries for both. Chen initially claimed he was trying to pick up his wallet when the accident occurred and fled because he feared his drugs would be discovered. He later abandoned the white car in a remote location. Police located the vehicle that evening and contacted the owner, who stated the car had been lent to a friend. On the afternoon of November 19th, Chen was apprehended in Yuanlin City while riding in a dark gray sedan. Drugs were found in his possession. The case was transferred to the Changhua District Prosecutors Office. The Changhua District Prosecutors Office has concluded its investigation and indicted Chen on charges including negligent injury, hit-and-run, and murder. The case will be heard by the Changhua District Court's lay judge division.