A speeding vehicle struck and killed 18-year-old Pitambar Rana near Khudpej village in Nuapada district around 9:30 PM last night.
The youth, a resident of Khujpejmahul Pada, suffered critical injuries and was rushed to Khariar Hospital. Doctors declared him dead shortly after arrival.
Eyewitnesses reported that the vehicle fled the scene immediately after the collision. Rana’s family filed a formal complaint at Khariar police station. Authorities registered the case under number 333/2025 and initiated an investigation. Sub-Inspector Aravind Meher confirmed that efforts are underway to identify and apprehend the driver responsible for the fatal hit-and-run.
Police conducted a post-mortem and handed over the body to the family. The incident has sparked concern among locals, who demand stricter enforcement of traffic laws and better lighting in accident-prone zones.
The tragic death of Pitambar Rana underscores the growing threat of reckless driving in rural Odisha. Families continue to suffer as unidentified vehicles escape accountability. Investigators are combing through CCTV footage and gathering witness statements to trace the vehicle involved.
The community mourns the loss of a young life cut short by negligence. Authorities urge anyone with information about the vehicle to come forward. The search for justice continues.
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