A tragic motor accident involving a Mack Truck and four minibusses has resulted in six fatalities and numerous injuries at IMSU Junction along Okigwe road in Owerri, the capital of Imo State.
According to Henry Okoye, the police spokesperson in Imo State, preliminary investigations suggest that the driver of the Mack Truck, registered as KWL 857 YE, lost control of the vehicle while traveling towards IMSU Junction from Orji along Okigwe road. Allegedly, the truck swerved into oncoming traffic, colliding with four shuttle minibusses and pedestrians along the road, causing severe injuries to many.
Upon receiving information about the incident on May 18, 2024, at approximately 5:45 PM, Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma promptly mobilized operatives from Orji Divisional Headquarters and the State Traffic department to the scene. Police personnel, alongside concerned citizens, facilitated the evacuation of victims to the Federal Medical Center (FMC), Owerri, for urgent medical attention. Tragically, six individuals were pronounced dead upon arrival at the medical facility, while efforts to save the lives of the injured victims commenced immediately.
Photographs and sketches of the accident scene were taken, and the affected vehicles were cleared to ensure the smooth flow of traffic. The bodies of the deceased were transported to the FMC mortuary for preservation, while efforts are underway to notify their families. The driver of the Mack Truck, who fled the scene following the accident, is being actively pursued by law enforcement authorities.
Expressing condolences to the families, friends, and relatives of the deceased, Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough investigation into the incident. He urged road users in Imo State to prioritize safety and ensure the roadworthiness of their vehicles to prevent avoidable accidents.
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