Bengaluru: Actor Mayur Patel was booked by the Halasuru Traffic Police late on Wednesday night for allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol and causing a serial accident near the Command Hospital signal in Domlur. The incident, which occurred around midnight on Old Airport Road, resulted in damage to multiple vehicles and briefly disrupted traffic in the busy stretch.
Accident near Command Hospital signal
According to the police, Mayur Patel was driving a Toyota Fortuner at high speed when he lost control of the vehicle and rammed into a line of cars that were stationary at the traffic signal near the Command Hospital. The impact of the collision was severe, leading to damage to at least three vehicles, including two Swift Dzires and a government-registered car.
Eyewitnesses said the crash created panic among motorists waiting at the signal, as the force of the impact pushed vehicles forward, causing a chain reaction.
Victim files complaint
One of the affected motorists, identified as Srinivas, whose car sustained significant damage, lodged a formal complaint with the police. Recounting the incident, he said, “I was waiting at the signal when a massive thud from behind pushed my car into the one in front. It was total chaos, and for a moment, people did not understand what had happened.”
Police said no serious injuries were reported, though occupants of the damaged vehicles were left shaken by the incident.
Police action and detention
Upon receiving information from the control room, Hoysala patrolling teams rushed to the spot and detained the actor. He was later escorted to the Halasuru Traffic Police Station for further inquiry.
A breathalyser test conducted at the station confirmed that Patel’s blood alcohol level was well above the permissible legal limit, police officials said. During verification of vehicle documents, it was also found that the high-end SUV was being driven without valid insurance.
Vehicle seized, case registered
Following the findings, the police seized the Toyota Fortuner and registered a case against the actor under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Motor Vehicles Act for drunk driving and reckless endangerment.
“A case has been registered for driving under the influence of alcohol and causing danger to public safety. The actor was taken into custody, and further legal proceedings are underway,” a senior police officer said.
Actor’s background
Mayur Patel is known for his roles in Kannada films such as Mani, Udees and Gunna. He also gained popularity as a former contestant on Bigg Boss Kannada. In recent years, the actor has maintained a low public profile and has largely stayed away from the limelight.
Rising concern over drunk driving
The incident has once again brought attention to the issue of drunk driving in Bengaluru, particularly during late-night hours. Traffic police officials said enforcement drives and breathalyser checks are being intensified across the city to curb such violations and ensure public safety.
Conclusion
The booking of a well-known actor for drunk driving and causing a serial accident serves as a reminder that traffic rules apply equally to all. Police have reiterated that strict action will be taken against offenders, irrespective of their social or professional status, to prevent accidents and protect road users.