Thrissur: The tragic accident in Nattika, where a timber-loaded lorry ran over people sleeping by the roadside, claimed five lives. According to the statement of Alex, the cleaner, the accident occurred because the driver, intoxicated from consuming alcohol, fell asleep at the wheel. The accused have admitted their guilt in the case.
The driver and the cleaner, who are the accused, have been remanded by the court. The remand report cites the disaster as a consequence of drunk driving. The police have registered a case of intentional homicide. The driver’s license and the vehicle’s registration have also been canceled.
In his confession, Alex revealed that the driver lost control for about 20 seconds due to intoxication. When the lorry hit something, Alex tried to steer it away but heard screams, prompting them to flee the scene. The lorry had set off at 5 PM, loaded with timber. They had stopped at Mahe to purchase alcohol and continued consuming it during the journey. By the time they reached Ponnani, the driver, Jose, was in a semi-conscious state, forcing Alex to take over the wheel.
The police stated that they will file an application in court within two days to take the accused into custody for further investigation.
