Shivamogga: Jubilant celebrations over RCB’s historic IPL win turned somber in Shivamogga on Tuesday night when a bike rally ended in a fatal head-on collision, claiming the life of a 21-year-old youth.

The victim, Abhinandan, a resident of Venkatesh Nagar, died on the spot after two bikes collided in front of Ganapathi Temple at Raveendranagar. The group of youngsters had taken to the streets on motorcycles to celebrate RCB’s long-awaited IPL title win over Punjab Kings.

The crash occurred within the jurisdiction of Jayanagar police station, casting a shadow over the otherwise festive night.

In a separate incident in Durgigudi, another bike reportedly rammed into a parked car outside a house. The bikers fled the scene, leaving the car damaged. This incident is being treated as a hit-and-run.

Celebrations spiraled late into the night across Shivamogga, especially at Seenappa Shetty Circle, where police had to resort to a mild lathicharge to disperse the crowd and restore order.

What began as a night of statewide joy and sporting pride turned grim in parts of Karnataka, serving as a sobering reminder of the need for safety and responsibility, even during moments of celebration.