Ladyhill hit-and-run incident: Police launch investigation

Team Udayavani, Oct 20, 2023, 8:05 AM IST

Following the hit-and-run incident near Ladyhill in the city on Wednesday afternoon, the police have initiated a thorough investigation. The incident involved a speeding car colliding with five young women walking on the footpath, tragically resulting in the death of Rupashree, a 23-year-old resident of Suratkal.

The car’s driver, Kamlesh Baldev, is suspected of reckless driving leading to the accident. Comprehensive footage of the incident was captured by CCTV cameras, assisting the police in their inquiry.

When asked about the ongoing investigation, City Police Commissioner Anupam Agarwal revealed that the accused driver had surrendered and been taken into custody. Medical examinations revealed no signs of alcohol consumption.

During questioning, the driver asserted that the car’s engine had overheated, causing a loss of control. The Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials will examine the vehicle to determine if any technical issues contributed to the accident. Additionally, other potential factors are being probed while scrutinizing CCTV footage.

The accident site raised concerns about the design and condition of the city’s footpaths, as many citizens have criticized their construction and maintenance. The investigation also considers whether the driver was using a mobile phone during the accident, as there is a possibility that distraction might have played a role.