Driver Detained After Car Incident at Đà Lạt Bus Station
Driver's Initial Statement Reveals Personal Dispute Behind Bus Station Incident
A 26-year-old local driver has been detained by Lâm Đồng Province police following a disturbing incident at Đà Lạt's inter-provincial bus station that left witnesses shaken on February 25th.
According to Tuổi Trẻ, Trần Văn Quốc from Lâm Viên Ward was arrested on charges of public disorder after driving his car (license plate 49H-035.69) in erratic circles around the bus terminal area on Tô Hiến Thành Street, near the Anh Phát gas station.
A Traffic Dispute That Escalated
In his initial police statement, Quốc described how the incident began with what seemed like a routine traffic encounter. "I was driving normally when a vehicle suddenly cut in front of me," Quốc reportedly told investigators. "I had to brake hard and swerved but didn't fall."
What started as a minor traffic incident between Quốc and 43-year-old Huỳnh Duy Minh from Xuân Hương Ward quickly escalated into a personal confrontation. According to police reports, Quốc initially drove past the other vehicle, exchanged words with the driver, and continued on his way.
Return to Confront
However, after stopping at Nam Thiên gas station on Hoàng Văn Thụ Street in Cam Ly Ward, Quốc decided to return to the scene. "I went back to block his car and continue arguing," he reportedly admitted to police. The confrontation turned physical when Quốc acknowledged punching Minh in the face.
"Then I left, went home, parked my motorbike, and got my car," Quốc told investigators, according to the police report.
Alcohol and Poor Judgment
Quốc returned to the bus station area seeking to "resolve things once and for all" with Minh. When he encountered Minh with a group of people who began shouting and pointing at him, Quốc said he felt provoked.
"I was already very upset... Minh said some things I didn't like," Quốc reportedly stated. Significantly, he admitted to having consumed alcohol before the incident: "At that time I had been drinking, I couldn't control my actions."
Community Impact
The incident has concerned many residents who frequent the busy bus terminal, a major transportation hub connecting Đà Lạt to other provinces. The area around Tô Hiến Thành Street sees heavy pedestrian and vehicle traffic daily, making such reckless driving particularly dangerous for the community.