Five people were killed and two others seriously injured after a speeding SUV reportedly rammed into pedestrians standing near the roadside in Agra’s Nagla Budhi area on Friday night. According to police, the SUV, driven by Anshu Gupta of Dayalbagh locality, collided with seven pedestrians before crashing into a divider and somersaulting twice, NDTV reported.
Locals apprehended the driver and handed him over to the police. The deceased include four men and one woman, and the injured are undergoing treatment. Police have seized the vehicle and started an investigation into causes such as reckless driving or intoxication.
Incident and Immediate Aftermath
The accident reportedly occurred around 8:30 pm near Nagla Budhi, close to the Central Hindi Institute. Eyewitnesses said the vehicle was moving at a dangerous speed before losing control. After colliding with a bike and the road divider, the SUV veered off and crushed a group of pedestrians who were standing roadside.
Several victims died instantly on the spot while others were rushed to Sarojini Naidu Medical College Hospital, where five were declared dead on arrival. Locals reacted angrily, reportedly thrashing the driver, before police took him into custody. Heavy police deployment followed to maintain peace.
Victims and Investigation
The deceased are identified as Babli (33), Bhanu Pratap (25), Kamal (23), Krishna (20), and Bantesh (21). Bhanu Pratap was reported to be working as a parcel delivery agent. The injured, Rahul and Golu, remain in critical condition receiving medical care.
Police have seized the SUV, collected CCTV footage from nearby shops and homes, and are investigating whether alcohol or negligence caused the crash. The driver remains under police custody for further questioning, and an official probe is underway to establish accountability.
Official Statements and Community Response
Agra police have confirmed the incident and reassured the public that steps are being taken to ensure justice and safety. Assistant Commissioner of Police Shesh Mani Upadhyay announced the driver’s arrest, emphasizing the seriousness of reckless driving.
Community members have called for stricter traffic enforcement and greater awareness to prevent such tragic accidents. The loss of young lives has deeply affected the local population, prompting demands for improved road safety infrastructure and stricter penalties for offenders.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This tragic accident highlights the persistent dangers of speeding and negligent driving in rapidly urbanizing Indian cities. The devastating loss of life underlines the urgent need for comprehensive road safety reforms, public education campaigns, and enhanced law enforcement. Empathy for bereaved families must be coupled with prevention strategies to safeguard pedestrians and drivers alike.
