A 23-year-old software engineer was arrested this week for allegedly attempting to murder a couple and their child by deliberately ramming his car into their two-wheeler in what police described as a serious act of road rage. The accused, identified as Sukruth Gowda, a resident of Balaji Layout in Kodigehalli, was remanded to judicial custody at the central prison after his arrest on November 8.
Police say car was intentionally driven into scooter
According to Sadashivanagar police, the incident occurred around 7.20pm near the MS Ramaiah Hospital junction on New BEL Road. The victims — Ankita Patel, 33, her husband Vineet, and their son — were travelling on their scooter when a car reportedly approached from behind, overtook them on the left and brushed against the two-wheeler, causing them to fall.
CCTV footage collected from the area showed the vehicle making sudden movements toward the scooter. While the footage initially seemed consistent with a hit-and-run case, officers said a closer examination suggested deliberate impact.
An investigating officer noted that the angle and force of the collision raised suspicions. “The manner in which the car struck the two-wheeler indicated intent. It was not a case of losing control or misjudging distance,” the officer said.
Road rage triggered by signal dispute
During questioning, the victims told police that the accused appeared irritated with them at a traffic signal moments before the incident. They alleged that Sukruth became angry because the scooter had not left enough space for his car to take a free left turn. After the light changed, he allegedly followed them for some distance before hitting their vehicle.
Police said the victims had no prior interaction with the accused and that the incident stemmed solely from a brief disagreement on the road.
The impact caused the couple and their child to fall onto the road, and passersby helped shift them to MS Ramaiah Hospital. Ankita and her son were discharged after treatment, while Vineet, who suffered additional injuries, was transferred to St. John’s Medical College Hospital for further care. Doctors said timely medical support prevented more serious consequences.
Police trace vehicle despite unclear footage
Officials said tracing the car was challenging because the licence plate was not clearly visible in CCTV footage from the accident site. Investigators then collected additional CCTV clips from the surrounding routes and pieced together the vehicle’s movement.
This led police to Sukruth’s residence. Officers said he appeared shocked when they approached him and informed him about the investigation. He was later taken into custody and questioned, during which he is said to have admitted his involvement.
Attempt-to-murder charges filed
A fresh case under sections pertaining to attempted murder was registered at the Sadashivanagar police station. Police said the gravity of the charges reflects the alleged intent behind the act and the potential for life-threatening injuries.
Sukruth, who works at a software firm in Whitefield and lives with his parents, was produced before a magistrate who remanded him to judicial custody. Police also seized the car believed to have been used in the offence for forensic examination.
Investigators said that although none of the victims suffered head injuries or critical trauma, the consequences could have been far worse. Officers emphasised that the city has seen an uptick in aggressive driving and road-rage-related complaints, prompting renewed focus on strict enforcement.
Families urged to exercise caution on busy roads
Authorities noted that Bengaluru’s traffic congestion often leads to tempers flaring among commuters, but warned that aggressive retaliation can result in severe legal consequences.
Senior officers said the case serves as a reminder that dangerous driving, even when momentary anger is involved, can escalate into criminal charges. They urged motorists to remain patient on dense stretches, especially in areas like New BEL Road where traffic movement becomes unpredictable during peak hours.
Investigation continues
Police officials said the investigation is ongoing and further charges may be added based on forensic reports and witness statements. Authorities are also examining whether any previous cases or complaints were associated with the accused.
The victims’ family has expressed relief over the swift action by police, though they said the incident has left them shaken. Officers added that counselling services would be made available if the family requires support.
Conclusion
The case highlights the serious consequences of road rage and the importance of responsible driving in metropolitan cities like Bengaluru. With the accused now in judicial custody and the investigation progressing, police say they hope the incident will discourage aggressive behaviour on the roads and encourage motorists to prioritise safety over momentary frustration.