Kundapur: A 34-year-old motorcyclist was killed after a truck collided with his motorcycle on National Highway 66 near Kinara Junction in Koteshwar, Kundapur taluk. The accident occurred on Thursday, July 9, and the truck driver has been taken into custody.
The deceased has been identified as Bharat Shetty, a resident of Kolth near Jannalu in Idur-Kunjnadi.
Fatal accident on NH-66
According to police and eyewitness accounts, the truck, which was transporting plywood from Kerala to Nashik, was travelling from Udupi towards Kundapur when it allegedly hit Bharat Shetty’s motorcycle, which was proceeding in the same direction.
The impact caused Bharat to fall onto the road, where he sustained grievous injuries. He died on the spot before medical assistance could be provided.
The accident took place near Kinara Junction in Koteshwar on National Highway 66.
Victim had married last year
Bharat Shetty was employed at a paint showroom near Koteshwar.
Family members and local residents said he had married only last year. He generally travelled to work by car from his residence but had chosen to commute by motorcycle on the day of the accident.
His sudden death has left family members, friends and colleagues in shock.
Driver taken into custody
Local residents alleged that the truck driver was driving negligently and recklessly, adding that he appeared to be under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.
Police have not officially confirmed the allegation regarding intoxication. The matter is expected to form part of the investigation, including any medical or forensic examination conducted as part of the case.
The accused driver has been identified as Bala Murugan.
Following the accident, he was taken into custody by the police and later produced before the court.
Police register case
Traffic Police Sub-Inspector Anoop Nayak, along with officer Sudha Prabhu and other personnel, visited the accident site and conducted a spot inspection.
A case has been registered at the Kundapur Traffic Police Station, and further investigation is underway to ascertain the exact circumstances that led to the collision.
Police are examining the evidence, including witness statements and other material, to determine the cause of the accident.
The tragic incident has once again highlighted concerns over road safety on the busy NH-66 corridor, where accidents involving heavy vehicles continue to be reported. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution while travelling on the highway and stated that appropriate legal action will be taken based on the outcome of the investigation.