Accident – Police Officer Killed in Maharajganj Road Crash
Accident – A police sub-inspector lost his life and four other officers sustained injuries when a government SUV collided with a tree in Uttar Pradesh’s Maharajganj district early Tuesday morning, officials confirmed. The vehicle, part of a team returning from an overnight operation, met with the accident shortly after dawn.
Crash Occurs During Return From Raid
According to Circle Officer (Cantt) Yogendra Singh, the incident occurred at approximately 6:30 am near the Katarari area, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Shyamdeurwa police station. The team had been in Maharajganj to conduct a raid and was heading back toward Gorakhpur when the crash took place.
Preliminary findings suggest that the driver may have briefly fallen asleep while navigating the highway. Investigators believe the SUV first veered onto the road divider before careening off course and slamming into a roadside tree. The force of the collision severely damaged the front section of the vehicle, leaving it mangled and immobile.
Officers Among the Injured
The police unit traveling in the SUV included Senior Sub-Inspector Ramesh Chandra Kushwaha, Sub-Inspectors Santosh Kumar and Geeta, two constables, and a private driver. All were inside the vehicle at the time of the accident.
Residents from nearby villages were among the first to respond. Hearing the impact, locals rushed to the scene and helped pull the injured officers from the wreckage before notifying authorities. Emergency services transported the victims to a nearby health centre for immediate care. Due to the seriousness of their injuries, they were later shifted to BRD Medical College in Gorakhpur for advanced treatment.
Sub-Inspector Succumbs to Injuries
Despite medical efforts, Sub-Inspector Santosh Kumar succumbed to his injuries during treatment, police officials said. His death has sent shockwaves through the department, where colleagues described him as a committed and disciplined officer.
Senior Sub-Inspector Kushwaha and Sub-Inspector Geeta remain in critical condition, hospital sources indicated. The driver, who was also injured in the crash, is reported to be out of danger. The two constables sustained comparatively minor injuries and are said to be recovering.
Background of the Deceased Officer
Santosh Kumar hailed from Sahsarawan village in Bihar’s Siwan district. He was posted at the Ramgarhtal police station in Gorakhpur at the time of the incident. Upon receiving news of the tragedy, his family members immediately left for Gorakhpur.
Senior officers have expressed condolences to the bereaved family and assured all possible assistance. The department is also reviewing the circumstances surrounding the accident as part of a standard procedure.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have initiated a detailed inquiry to determine the exact sequence of events leading to the crash. While early indications point to driver fatigue as a possible cause, officials stated that a thorough mechanical inspection of the vehicle will also be conducted.
Road safety experts have often highlighted the risks associated with extended duty hours, especially for personnel engaged in late-night operations. However, police officials have refrained from drawing any final conclusions until the investigation is complete.
The tragic accident has once again underscored the hazards faced by law enforcement officers not only during active operations but also while traveling on highways. Further updates are expected after medical reports and technical assessments are finalized.