A 19-year-old college student was killed after a pickup crane allegedly hit and ran over her while she was walking towards her college in Ahmedabad’s Gota area. The fatal accident, which was captured on CCTV, occurred barely 200 metres from the campus.
Student was walking to college
The victim, identified as Prerna Ninama, was a first-year BSc Biotechnology student at Silver Oak University. She had left home at around 11.30 am and was walking towards the college when the accident occurred.
According to police and CCTV footage, the crane approached from behind and struck the student as she walked along the road. The vehicle then ran over her, causing fatal injuries. Emergency medical personnel declared her dead at the spot.
The crane driver, identified as 26-year-old Arun Nishad, allegedly fled the scene after the accident. Local residents helped trace him to the nearby Sola area, after which police took him into custody.
Road safety concerns raised
The incident has also raised concerns about pedestrian safety on the stretch outside the university. Residents said the road does not have a proper footpath, leaving pedestrians to walk close to moving vehicles.
Police are examining CCTV footage and other evidence as part of the investigation. A case has been registered against the driver under provisions relating to negligent and rash driving and causing death by negligence.
The tragedy has left the student’s family and college community mourning the loss of a young life while also renewing concerns about safe pedestrian infrastructure around educational institutions.