Investigation Underway After Fatal Fujairah Crashes on Sheikh Khalifa Road

The UAE Public Prosecution has initiated an investigation into two traffic accidents that occurred on Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road (E66) near Fujairah early on November 12. The incidents resulted in 14 fatalities and approximately 30 injuries, along with damage to multiple vehicles and trucks.

Preliminary findings indicate that the first collision involved a vehicle striking a stationary truck. Shortly after, a truck transporting two shipping containers collided with several stopped vehicles before overturning. Both accidents happened in a section of the road where the right-hand lane was closed for maintenance work.

According to the UAE Ministry of Interior, the chain of events began when a truck driver lost control and crashed into another vehicle, causing it to overturn. The overturned vehicle then collided with other vehicles halted due to slow traffic. The truck caught fire, and the flames spread to nearby vehicles.

Following the incidents, a Public Prosecution team led by Haitham Ali Al Hammadi, First Chief Prosecutor at Fujairah Public Prosecution, inspected the scene to gather evidence and determine the causes and liabilities involved. The truck and damaged vehicles were impounded for technical examinations, with specialists focusing on braking systems and extracting data from tracking and speed-recording devices.

The truck driver was interrogated and placed under pretrial detention with security measures while receiving medical care in hospital. His passport and driving licence were confiscated, and laboratory tests were ordered. Authorities are preparing a comprehensive technical report on both crashes.

Witnesses and injured individuals continue to provide statements to authorities. The Public Prosecution emphasized that legal action will be taken against any parties found responsible.

Of the injured, 15 have been discharged after treatment, while others remain hospitalized. Those affected include nationals from the UAE, Oman, India, Brazil, Pakistan, Jordan, and Egypt. The fatalities include Emirati citizens.

Forensic examinations and DNA testing are being conducted to identify the deceased and determine causes of death. The Public Prosecution expressed condolences to the families of the victims and wished the injured a swift recovery.

What this means for you

• Be cautious when driving in areas with lane closures due to maintenance, such as Sheikh Khalifa Road.
• Follow traffic rules carefully to avoid accidents, especially in congested or slow-moving traffic zones.
• Authorities are investigating accidents thoroughly; cooperating with officials if involved is important.
• Stay informed about road safety updates and any changes to traffic conditions in your area.