PHILIPSBURG, Sint Maarten — The Traffic Department of the Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) is currently investigating three distinct traffic incidents that occurred within a span of 24 hours, resulting in injuries to individuals involved.
The first incident was reported at approximately 08:30 PM on February 16th, 2024. Police Central Dispatch received multiple calls concerning an accident on Sucker Garden Road, near a gas retail establishment. Upon arrival at the scene, officers and emergency medical personnel discovered a female pedestrian who had been struck by a vehicle while crossing the road. The victim sustained injuries to her shoulder and was provided with first aid before being transported to the Sint Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) for further medical attentionHere injuries are not life threatening.
Subsequently, at around 12:30 AM on February 17th, 2024, Central Dispatch received another call reporting a severe collision on Juancho Yrausquin Boulevard involving a red SUV and a semi-truck. Responding units, including police patrols and ambulance services, promptly attended the scene. It was observed that the female driver of the red SUV had lost consciousness following the collision. She was administered first aid and rushed to the SMMC for medical evaluation. Preliminary investigations conducted by the Traffic Department indicate that the driver may have been driving under the influence of alcohol. Although sustaining minor abrasions to her face and upper body, her injuries are not deemed life-threatening.
Lastly, Central Dispatch received a distress call after 04:30 AM on February 17th, 2024, reporting a multi-vehicle accident on Simpson Bay Road. According to preleminary invstigation , the driver of a green Hyundai Accent appeared to have fallen asleep at the wheel, subsequently colliding with a parked garbage truck and also causing damage to two other vehicles in the vicinity. The driver sustained minor injuries and received immediate medical assistance from ambulance personnel.
In light of these incidents, the KPSM urges all drivers to exercise caution and responsibility, particularly in assessing their fitness to drive. Driving under the influence of alcohol or in a fatigued state poses significant risks not only to the driver but also to other road users. The Traffic Department continues to investigate these accidents thoroughly to ascertain all contributing factors.