CHENNAI: Three schoolchildren were killed and another seriously injured after a speeding car allegedly driven by an intoxicated driver struck them in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu, according to local media reports.
The tragic incident occurred in Karakottai village, near a Government Higher Secondary School, where four students were walking home after school when they were hit by a vehicle.
According to Indian media, the children were traveling along the roadside when a fast-moving car suddenly veered toward them and crashed into the group.
Three Children Killed
Rescue officials reported that three children died at the scene or shortly after the accident, while a fourth child sustained serious injuries.
The injured student was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment. Medical authorities have not yet released detailed information regarding the child’s condition.
Reports indicate that all three deceased children were 12 years old, making the incident particularly heartbreaking for families and the local community.
Local Residents Stage Protest
News of the accident quickly spread throughout the area, prompting residents and relatives of the victims to gather near the crash site.
Angered by the deaths, local residents reportedly blocked the road and staged a protest, demanding strict action against the driver and improved road safety measures.
The protest caused traffic disruptions in the area until police intervened and assured demonstrators that legal action would be taken against the accused.
Following discussions with law enforcement officials, the protesters eventually dispersed.
Driver Allegedly Intoxicated
According to police, the driver has been identified as Loganathan.
Preliminary investigations suggest that he was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. Authorities suspect that intoxication, combined with excessive speed, may have contributed to the crash.
Police officials stated that initial findings indicate the driver lost control of the vehicle while driving at high speed, causing the car to leave its path and strike the children.
Arrest Made
Law enforcement authorities have arrested the driver and initiated legal proceedings.
Police investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, including vehicle speed, road conditions, and the driver’s level of intoxication.
Officials are also expected to review witness statements and any available evidence to determine the full sequence of events.
Concerns Over Road Safety
The tragedy has once again highlighted concerns regarding road safety, reckless driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol in India.
Road safety advocates have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of traffic laws, harsher penalties for drunk driving, and greater protection for schoolchildren traveling to and from educational institutions.
Local residents have urged authorities to improve safety measures near schools, including speed restrictions, warning signs, pedestrian crossings, and increased traffic monitoring.
Community in Mourning
The deaths of the three young students have left the village in mourning, with families, teachers, and classmates expressing grief over the loss.
Community members have called for swift justice and stronger preventive measures to ensure that similar tragedies do not occur in the future.
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