Kalaburagi: In a heartbreaking accident near Nelogi Cross in Jewargi taluk, Kalaburagi district, five people, including a 13-year-old girl, lost their lives when a minibus carrying pilgrims crashed into a stationary truck in the early hours of Saturday. The victims, hailing from Bagalkote, were on their way to visit a revered dargah in Kalaburagi when the accident occurred around 3:30 AM. Police reports indicate that the truck had been parked on the roadside due to a punctured tyre, and as the driver was attempting repairs, the speeding minibus rammed into the rear of the truck.

The impact of the collision was severe, causing instant fatalities for five passengers. Several others sustained injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are currently under medical care. The scene was described as chaotic, with rescue teams working swiftly to extricate passengers and provide immediate assistance. Eyewitnesses claim that the minibus driver fled the spot following the crash, abandoning the injured victims in the wreckage.

Kalaburagi Superintendent of Police, A. Srinivasulu, confirmed the fatalities and stated that efforts are underway to track down the absconding driver. A case has been registered, and police officials are assessing the total number of injured individuals. The tragedy has cast a shadow over the local community, with families mourning the sudden loss of their loved ones. Authorities are urging transport operators to exercise extreme caution, especially during night travel, to avoid such devastating incidents.