Stray dog pack chases scooter in Thrissur, elderly woman dies after vehicle skids

Thrissur, Kerala: Tragedy struck the village of Muttichur in Thrissur district on Wednesday afternoon when an elderly woman lost her life following an encounter with a pack of stray dogs. The victim, identified as 75-year-old Suhra, was travelling as a pillion passenger on a scooter when the incident occurred near Muttichur bridge.

The afternoon began routinely as Suhra was being taken by her granddaughter. However, the journey turned into a nightmare when several stray dogs suddenly began chasing their vehicle. In an attempt to escape the animals, the young rider accelerated the scooter. The sudden increase in speed proved difficult to manage on a stretch of road that was unpaved and covered in loose soil near a local temple.

A fatal loss of control

As the vehicle sped up to outrun the four dogs, the rider lost control on the muddy surface. The scooter skidded, throwing Suhra onto the ground. Although both the rider and Suhra were wearing helmets, the impact was severe. Suhra reportedly hit the ground with her face and forehead, suffering a critical head injury.

Witnesses described a scene of chaos. Local residents rushed to help the two women and found Suhra bleeding heavily from her nose and head. She was quickly taken to a nearby hospital, but her injuries were too severe. Doctors were unable to save her, and she was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

A community gripped by fear

The tragedy has caused significant distress among residents of Muttichur, who say stray dog attacks have become a frequent and frightening part of daily life. According to local accounts, the area near the temple has been particularly problematic, with packs of dogs often gathering and chasing passers-by. One resident said it is common for the animals to chase vehicles, especially those carrying children or women.

While the local ward member and neighbours gathered at the scene of the crash, anger was evident. Many said they had long feared such an incident, with previous cases of dogs chasing and biting residents reported in the same area.