Puttur: A tragic road accident on Saturday evening (November 1) claimed the life of a six-year-old girl and left five others injured near Parpunja Kollattadka village on the Mani–Mysuru National Highway in Puttur taluk.
The deceased has been identified as Shajwa Fatima (6), daughter of Hanif, an autorickshaw driver and resident of Bannuru, Puttur.
Collision between auto and car
According to preliminary reports, the accident occurred near a local hall when an autorickshaw travelling from Puttur city towards Tingaladi collided head-on with a car coming from Sullia towards Puttur. The impact left the autorickshaw completely mangled.
Eyewitnesses said locals rushed to the scene immediately after the crash and helped shift the injured to nearby hospitals.
Victims taken to hospitals in Puttur and Mangaluru
Among the injured, two passengers were shifted to Mangaluru for advanced medical care, while three others are being treated at a private hospital in Puttur. The condition of some of the victims is said to be serious.
Investigation underway
Police reached the spot soon after the incident and cleared the highway to restore traffic flow. An investigation has been launched to determine the exact cause of the accident, including whether overspeeding or poor visibility played a role.
Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution on the Mani–Mysuru Highway, which has witnessed several accidents in recent months due to its sharp curves and heavy evening traffic.