Car split in half after firecrackers exploded, one dead

Editor's note: The cause of the mishap has been updated based on the latest information from the police.

One person died after a car carrying fireworks exploded and split the vehicle in half in Simpang Empat, Kampung Sireh, Kota Bharu, Kelantan, today.

Kota Darulnaim Fire and Rescue Station chief Mohd Ridzuan Ali had initially suspected a lightning strike but further investigations found the destroyed vehicle was carrying fireworks.

Police said the explosion also damaged five other vehicles nearby, including one that caught fire.

“So far, a man in his 50s, who was also the driver of the car that exploded, has been confirmed dead. The impact of the explosion also caused the Proton Iswara car to split into two.

“The powerful explosion also caused the victim’s body to be thrown about 20 metres from his vehicle. Several of his limbs, including both legs, were severed," Kelantan police chief Shafien Mamat was quoted as saying by Bernama.

Earlier, footage of the incident was also spread on social media showing a car in flames following an explosion.

Shafien said several other people were also injured.

“It is understood there are four more victims involved in different vehicles are being treated in the Raja Perempuan Zainab II Hospital (HRPZII).

“The incident also injured a police personnel who is now being treated at HRPZII.

“I urge members of the public who witnessed the incident to come forward to provide information and assist police investigations,” he told reporters when met at the scene of the incident.

Shafien added that the case is being investigated under Section 8 of the Explosives Act 1957.

Suke mishap: Work to remove collapsed crane begins

Suke accident: Body of third victim still trapped 31 hours later

Tighten SOP to prevent repeat accidents at highway construction sites - expert

Motorists crushed again

Chronology of accidents at highway construction sites since 2018