A 65-year-old tourist from Bhopal was killed and two of his family members were injured after a speeding SUV rammed their car in North Goa, police said. The accident took place at the busy Happy Bar junction in Assagao, a narrow stretch that often sees heavy traffic.
The victim, Bhagatram Sharma, was travelling with his family in a Hyundai i20 when a Mahindra Thar hit the vehicle from behind with great force. The impact badly damaged the car and left Sharma critically injured. He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead. Two other occupants of the car suffered minor injuries and are recovering. An infant who was also in the vehicle escaped unharmed.
According to the police, the Thar was allegedly being driven by a Delhi-based BBA student. A case of rash and negligent driving causing death has been registered. The SUV has been seized and all the occupants are being questioned.
Investigators are trying to establish who was behind the wheel at the time of the crash. Local residents who gathered at the spot claimed that the people inside the SUV attempted to change seats immediately after the accident. Police said they are verifying these claims using CCTV footage, videos recorded by bystanders and forensic evidence.
Preliminary findings suggest the SUV was moving at high speed when it hit the car. The vehicle was reportedly rented and had several passengers.
The incident has once again raised concerns about reckless driving in Goa, especially in areas that are popular with tourists but have narrow roads and sharp turns.
Sharma had travelled to Goa with his family for a holiday. His body will be taken back to Bhopal for the last rites.
Police said further action will depend on the outcome of the investigation and the exact sequence of events leading to the crash.
Also Read: UK makes online travel approval must for visa-free visitors
