Mandla, April 12 (IANS) One person was killed, and three others were injured when a speeding Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) went out of control and crashed into four two-wheelers near Chandni Paan Centre in Collectorate Colony in Madhya Pradesh’s Mandla city.

The incident occurred around midnight at a T-shaped turn close to the busy paan shop. According to police and eyewitnesses, the SUV was being driven rashly. As it took the sharp turn, the driver lost control of the vehicle, which then rammed into several parked and moving two-wheelers and crushed people standing nearby.

The deceased has been identified as Shaneel Nikhar, a resident of Radha Krishna Ward behind the District Panchayat.

Among the injured are Asif Hussain (40), who suffered injuries to his head, ribs, and leg, and Rahul Kachhwaha (35), who sustained a leg injury. Rahul used to work in a local shop.

All the injured were immediately rushed to the district hospital, where they are undergoing treatment.

CCTV footage of the accident has surfaced, clearly capturing the horrifying moment when the out-of-control SUV ploughed into the two-wheelers.

A large crowd gathered at the spot soon after the crash and apprehended the driver, who was reportedly drunk.

The agitated locals handed him over to the police. Kotwali police reached the spot promptly and brought the situation under control.

The damaged SUV and the four wrecked two-wheelers were lifted with the help of a crane and towed to the police station.

A case has been registered against the driver, and further investigation is underway to determine the exact cause, including the role of drunken driving and overspeeding.

Mandla Superintendent of Police said, “The driver was drunk and driving recklessly. We have registered a case under the relevant sections of the Motor Vehicles Act and IPC. The CCTV footage is being analysed, and strict action will be taken.”

–IANS

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