Family seeks justice after drunk driver charged lightly in marathon runner's death
KOTA KINABALU (Aug 12): The family of marathon runner Sue Lynn is urging authorities to reinstate a more serious charge against a driver accused of causing her death in a drunk-driving incident.
On 29 January 2025, at about 6am, the 44-year-old athlete was fatally struck by a Honda City while running towards Donggongon Shopping Mall. The driver, a 21-year-old man, was alleged to have been intoxicated.
Police initially investigated the case under Section 44(1) of the Road Transport Act — drunken driving causing death — but the driver was later charged only under Section 45A, which covers drunken driving without causing harm or death.
Through legal counsel M.S. Shah & Associates, the family is seeking to have the charge amended back to Section 44(1).
The case was first mentioned at the Magistrate's Court here on 11 July 2025, with the second mention set for 21 August 2025.
Sue Lynn, a mother and dedicated athlete, had been training for upcoming marathons with hopes of competing internationally. Her death has prompted calls for stronger road safety measures and better protection for joggers in Sabah.
The family is appealing for public support in sharing her story, media coverage to raise awareness, and for authorities to ensure justice is served.
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