SIBU — A Chinese national, Sun Xue Song, 42, was sentenced to five years in jail and fined RM20,000 for causing the death of former Sabah State Court director Marutin Pagan in a road accident at the Kanowit roundabout on March 30.

Sun pleaded guilty to dangerous driving under Section 41(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987. His jail term is effective from his arrest date, and he is barred from holding a driving licence for five years.

Sun, driving a Proton X70, had ignored give-way signs and collided with a Toyota Fortuner, causing it to roll over. Marutin, 56, died from head and chest injuries.

In mitigation, Sun’s lawyer cited his remorse, early guilty plea, clean record, financial support to the victim’s family (RM70,000), and responsibilities toward his mother and son.

Prosecutors argued for a deterrent sentence, citing Sun’s clear disregard for road safety and the public interest.