A devastating accident in Dehradun’s ONGC Chowk late Monday night claimed the lives of six students when their speeding Toyota Innova collided with a container truck. The tragedy unfolded as the group, returning from a party, met with a fatal crash that left the vehicle mangled and claimed most lives instantly.
The lone survivor, Siddhesh Agrawal (25), remains hospitalized in stable condition. Siddhesh, who hosted the party earlier that night, is unable to recall the events leading to the crash.
Details of the Crash
The collision occurred at approximately 1:30 am. According to police, the Innova struck the rear-left side of the truck, considered a blind spot, tearing the vehicle’s roof off and decapitating two passengers. The vehicle, reportedly a new purchase without license plates, was reduced to an unrecognizable state.
CCTV footage reveals that the Innova was initially driving moderately but sharply accelerated near the ONGC intersection, possibly attempting to overtake a luxury car. Inspector KC Bhatt of Cantt police station stated that the initial investigation points to speeding as the primary cause, with no fault attributed to the truck driver.
Speculations of Intoxication
A new video surfaced showing the group allegedly drinking and partying shortly before the accident. The footage, which has not been independently verified, shows young men and women dancing and consuming what appears to be alcohol. While police await autopsy results, the video raises questions about the role of intoxication in the crash.
Siddhesh’s father, Vipin Agrawal, has urged the public to refrain from speculation and respect the families’ privacy during this time of grief.
Owner and Background of the Vehicle
The ill-fated Innova was recently purchased by Sunil Agarwal, a businessman from Saharanpur, during the Dhanteras festival. His son, Atul, was reportedly driving the vehicle at the time of the accident. Friends had demanded a party to celebrate the new car, leading to the gathering hosted by Siddhesh in Jakhan, Dehradun.
Chief Minister Expresses Condolences
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, on a visit to Uttarkashi, expressed profound sorrow over the tragic accident.
“The news of the death of six youths in a road accident in Dehradun is heart-rending. I pray to God to grant peace to the departed souls and strength to the bereaved families,” he said.
Ongoing Investigation
The police are now analyzing the vehicle’s records, phone data, and CCTV footage to piece together the sequence of events leading to the crash. Legal action against the deceased driver remains unfeasible, but authorities emphasize the need for responsible driving to prevent such tragedies.
Sources By Agencies
