Mangaluru: Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza, parish priest of St Lawrence Shrine and Church, Bondel, had a miraculous escape after being involved in a car accident on January 1, 2026. Despite the severity of the mishap, he escaped without sustaining any serious injuries, leaving onlookers and well-wishers relieved and grateful.
The accident occurred when Fr D’Souza was returning to Bondel from his native place, Neerude, after attending a New Year get-together at his residence. According to available details, the incident took place at Marakada, a stretch of road known for its sharp turns and elevation differences.
Tyre burst leads to loss of control
As Fr D’Souza was driving through Marakada, one of the tyres of his car reportedly burst suddenly. The unexpected tyre failure caused him to lose control of the vehicle. Within moments, the car veered off the road, crossed the edge of the roadside and plunged downwards into the courtyard of a house situated at a lower level.
CCTV cameras installed in the vicinity captured the dramatic sequence of events. Screen grabs from the footage show the car swerving abruptly before landing on its side in the courtyard below the road. The visuals underline the seriousness of the accident and the potential danger involved.
Onlookers rush to help
Residents and passers-by who witnessed the accident were quick to respond. Many onlookers rushed to the spot immediately after the car came to a halt. Despite the shock and confusion, they worked together to help the priest.
With collective effort, the locals managed to set the car back in an upright position. They then assisted Fr D’Souza in safely exiting the vehicle. Eyewitnesses said that although the car suffered damage, it was remarkable that the priest did not sustain major injuries.
The prompt response of the local residents played a crucial role in ensuring Fr D’Souza’s safety and preventing further complications after the crash.
No serious injuries reported
Sources confirmed that Fr D’Souza did not suffer any serious injuries in the accident. He was examined following the incident and was found to be stable. The absence of major injuries, given the manner in which the vehicle had overturned, was described by many as nothing short of miraculous.
The incident has since drawn attention among parishioners and members of the Christian community in and around Mangaluru, many of whom expressed relief upon learning that the priest was safe.
Priest attributes survival to divine grace
Speaking after the incident, Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza said that his survival was due entirely to God’s grace. Reflecting on the accident, he expressed gratitude for being protected from harm despite the severity of the crash.
“It is only by God’s grace that I was saved from such a severe accident,” he said, thanking those who came to his aid without hesitation. He also acknowledged the concern and prayers of parishioners and well-wishers who reached out to him after hearing about the incident.
Community expresses relief
Members of the St Lawrence Shrine and Church, Bondel, along with friends and parishioners, have expressed relief and gratitude following the news of Fr D’Souza’s safety. Several parishioners said the incident served as a reminder of the importance of road safety, as well as the need for vigilance while travelling, especially during festive seasons.
Local residents at Marakada also highlighted the need for caution on the stretch of road where the accident occurred, pointing out that tyre bursts and loss of control can have serious consequences on elevated roads.
Conclusion
While the accident could have had tragic consequences, Fr Andrew Leo D’Souza’s narrow escape has been widely described as providential. The timely help of onlookers, combined with what many believe was divine protection, ensured that the incident ended without loss of life or serious injury. The priest has since resumed his routine, carrying with him a renewed sense of gratitude and faith.