A tragic road accident occurred early this morning, April 1, 2026, at KM284.1 of the North-South Expressway (PLUS) near the Simpang Pulai exit. A Toyota carrying four young men lost control and veered off the highway, crashing into a valley approximately three metres deep. The Perak Fire and Rescue Department received an emergency call at 8:18 am and immediately dispatched a team of nine firefighters, along with emergency medical rescue vehicles, to the scene. 

Tragically, one of the passengers, a 19-year-old man, was pronounced dead at the spot by health department personnel. The other three occupants, aged 18 and 19, sustained minor injuries but were not trapped within the wreckage. The rescue team provided initial medical treatment to the survivors before they were transported to a nearby hospital for further observation. The operation commander confirmed that the deceased's body was handed over to the police for further investigation and post-mortem procedures. 

Preliminary findings suggest that the vehicle may have lost control due to external factors or mechanical failure, though investigations are ongoing. This incident has led to temporary traffic congestion on the northbound side of the expressway as rescue and recovery efforts were carried out. Authorities have once again reminded motorists to remain vigilant and ensure their vehicles are in optimal condition before embarking on long-distance journeys, especially during early morning hours when visibility can be a factor.