An 18-year-old woman preparing for the Indian Air Force physical examination was killed in a hit-and-run accident on a Jaipur expressway early Wednesday morning, police said. The incident has once again raised concerns over speeding and road safety on urban expressways.

Morning jog turns fatal

The victim, Anaya Sharma, a native of Jhunjhunu district, was residing in Jaipur with her sister while preparing for the Indian Air Force recruitment process. Police said Anaya was jogging along the Shanti Bagh stretch of the expressway when a speeding black Mahindra Thar SUV struck her from behind.

She sustained critical injuries in the collision and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared her dead during treatment. The driver of the SUV fled the scene without offering assistance.

Vehicle later abandoned

According to police, after hitting Anaya, the SUV continued along the expressway and collided with another vehicle further ahead. The driver later abandoned the Thar near Dadi ka Phatak and escaped on foot.

Officers from Kardhani Police Station registered a case and seized the abandoned vehicle. A post-mortem examination was conducted, following which Anaya’s body was handed over to her family for last rites in her native village.

Hunt for accused underway

Police officials said special teams have been formed to trace the absconding driver. Investigators are analysing CCTV footage from the expressway and surrounding areas, along with technical surveillance and vehicle registration records, to identify and arrest the accused.

“Efforts are underway to track the driver, and he will be arrested soon. Stringent legal action will be taken,” a senior police officer said.

Aspirations cut short

Family members and locals described Anaya as a disciplined and determined young woman with dreams of serving the nation. Her death has sparked outrage among residents, who have demanded stricter enforcement against speeding and reckless driving, particularly on stretches frequently used by morning walkers and joggers.

Police said further investigation is in progress.