The death toll in the tragic electric vehicle (EV) crash near New Government Colony, close to Sainik School in Bhubaneswar, has risen to three after another injured person died while undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar on Tuesday.
Authorities confirmed that three other injured individuals remain in critical condition and are receiving intensive medical care.
Third Victim Succumbs to Injuries
The latest victim has been identified as Laxmidhar Tapu. Earlier, two other victims — Jeyrom Ekka and Santosh Behera — lost their lives shortly after the accident.
Medical teams continue to monitor the condition of the remaining injured persons, whose health status remains critical.
How the Accident Happened
According to preliminary reports, the compact electric vehicle was travelling from Press Chhak towards MCL Office Road when the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle.
The car reportedly collided with a parked auto-rickshaw and several motorcycles before striking a group of people standing near a roadside tea stall. The impact caused severe injuries and extensive damage in the area.
Local residents immediately rushed to assist the victims and helped emergency responders shift the injured to nearby hospitals.
Victims Shifted to AIIMS Bhubaneswar
All injured persons were initially taken to a private medical facility before being transferred to Capital Hospital and later to AIIMS Bhubaneswar for advanced treatment.
Doctors declared two victims dead shortly after their arrival. A third victim later succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment.
Eyewitnesses Report High-Speed Movement
Several eyewitnesses stated that the vehicle appeared to be travelling at a high speed moments before the crash. Residents reported that the driver seemed to lose control before the vehicle struck parked vehicles and pedestrians.
Police have not yet released an official conclusion regarding the exact cause of the accident.
Driver Surrenders After Incident
Following the crash, the driver allegedly left the scene, leading to anger among local residents. Police later identified the driver as Anil Gowda, a resident of Ganjam district.
Officials confirmed that he subsequently surrendered before the police. A case has been registered, and investigators are examining all aspects of the incident, including vehicle condition, speed, driver conduct, and other contributing factors.
Investigation Continues
Police teams are collecting evidence, reviewing witness statements, and examining the vehicle involved in the accident. Authorities have assured that a detailed investigation will determine the circumstances that led to the crash.
The incident has once again highlighted concerns surrounding road safety, responsible driving practices, and pedestrian protection in busy urban areas of Bhubaneswar.
