Tragedy in Rivers State: 4 People K!lled After Motorist Loses Control Along G.U. Ake Road

 

In a heartbreaking and tragic event that shook residents of Rivers State, four innocent lives were lost in the early hours of Monday, May 12, when a motorist lost control of his vehicle and plowed into a group of pedestrians. The incident happened along the busy and often dangerous G.U. Ake Road, a major route in the state capital, Port Harcourt.

According to official information released by the Rivers State Police Command, the accident occurred shortly after midnight, a time when the road is usually quiet, with fewer vehicles and people. Unfortunately, this calm was shattered by a devastating crash that has now left a community in mourning.

The driver involved in the accident has been identified as Benson Peter Michael, a 36-year-old male. He was driving a Toyota Camry with the registration number ABJ 10 EM at the time of the incident. Reports indicate that the vehicle was moving at high speed when the driver lost control and veered off course.

In an official statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Rivers State Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, it was confirmed that the vehicle struck six pedestrians who were walking by the roadside.

“One Benson Peter Michael, male, 36 years old, and the driver of a Toyota Camry with registration number ABJ 10 EM, lost control of the vehicle and collided with six pedestrians,” the Police PRO stated.

Sadly, the impact of the crash was fatal for most of the victims.

“Tragically, four of the pedestrians were confirmed de@d at the scene, while two others sustained injuries and were immediately rushed to BMH Hospital for medical attention,” she added.

The identity of the deceased individuals has not yet been made public as of the time of this report, pending notification of their families. The two survivors are currently receiving treatment at Braithwaite Memorial Specialist Hospital (BMH), and their condition remains under close observation.

The police also confirmed that the driver has been taken into custody, and the vehicle involved in the accident has been recovered and impounded at the police station for further examination and investigation.

In line with standard procedures for such incidents, the corpses of the deceased have been deposited at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) Mortuary, where autopsies are expected to be conducted.

As investigations continue, the police have assured the public that the case will be properly handled and transferred to the appropriate unit for thorough examination.

“The case will be transferred to the State Traffic Department for further investigation,” the PPRO explained.

In closing her statement, Grace Iringe-Koko expressed the deep sorrow of the police command over the unfortunate incident and gave assurances that those found responsible will face the full weight of the law.

“The Command deeply regrets the unfortunate incident and assures the public that justice will be served,” she concluded.

This tragic incident serves as a painful reminder of the dangers of reckless driving, especially during late hours. It also raises concerns about road safety enforcement and the need for stricter penalties for traffic violations that lead to loss of life.

NaijaRush will continue to follow this story and provide updates as more information becomes available.