Hit-and-run angle emerges in Thiruvananthapuram crash that claimed 2 young lives

A road accident in Thiruvananthapuram that was first believed to have been caused by a motorcycle losing control has taken a new turn, with police finding that the bike was hit by a car before crashing into a divider on the Kazhakkoottam-Karode National Highway.

The victims were identified as Naveen Sibi, 25, an employee of UST Global in Kazhakkoottam, and Mridula Ann Oommen, 25, who worked at EY GBS India Ltd at KINFRA in Kazhakkoottam. Both died in the crash near the Pachalloor toll plaza at around 2.30 pm on Thursday.

CCTV footage uncovers hit-and-run

Police initially suspected that the motorcycle had skidded and rammed into the divider. However, officers examining the accident scene noticed signs that raised doubts about the initial assessment.

Investigators found paint marks on the motorcycle's handlebar that matched a car. Other evidence at the scene also suggested the involvement of another vehicle, prompting police to examine CCTV footage from the area.

The footage revealed that the motorcycle had been hit by a car before veering into the divider. Following the findings, police traced the car driver to his residence in Maranalloor.

The driver, identified as Vishnu, was taken into custody. According to police, he admitted to hitting the motorcycle. During questioning, he reportedly said he did not stop after the collision because he was frightened.

Two victims succumb to injuries

Mridula died at the scene, while Naveen succumbed to his injuries while being taken to hospital. Police said the impact of the collision threw Mridula several metres from the motorcycle.

Naveen was the son of Sibi Joseph and Shalini of Vazhappilly in Ernakulam district. Mridula was the daughter of Oommen Varghese and Saji Oommen of Thodupuzha in Idukki district.