Taipei, July 19 — A tragic traffic accident claimed the life of a prominent Taiwanese surgeon near the intersection of Zhongshan South Road and Aiguo East Road in Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, early Friday morning.
At approximately 8:44 a.m., Dr. Zhou Jiazheng, 60, director of surgery at the Ministry of Health and Welfare Taoyuan Hospital, was crossing the street on a designated pedestrian lane when he was struck by Xinxin Bus No. 18, which was making a left turn. Dr. Zhou was caught under the front left wheel of the bus and was quickly extricated by firefighters at the scene.
Emergency responders rushed Dr. Zhou to National Taiwan University Hospital, where he was pronounced dead despite resuscitation efforts. He reportedly had no vital signs upon arrival.
Surveillance footage released by authorities showed that the bus slowed down as it approached the intersection but did not come to a complete stop or yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk. Dr. Zhou, assuming the bus would yield, attempted to jog across, only to be struck and dragged under the vehicle.
The driver of the bus, identified as a 63-year-old man surnamed Li, claimed during police questioning that he “did not see anyone” in the crosswalk. Investigators noted that while the driver reduced speed, he failed to perform a proper visual check before turning. He has since been taken into custody and faces charges of negligent homicide.
Dr. Zhou, a widely respected figure in the field of breast surgery, was in Taipei alone for a medical conference when the incident occurred. His sudden passing has shocked the medical community and those who knew him personally. His son was immediately notified and arrived at the hospital shortly after. His wife is reportedly en route.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident, and further legal proceedings are expected.
end a meeting at the time of the incident. His son has arrived at the hospital, and his wife is en route. The medical community and general public alike mourn the loss of such a distinguished professional.
