Kozhikode: In a shocking incident, three people were killed and several others injured after two elephants ran amok during a temple festival here on Thursday. 

The incident happened during a temple festival at the Manakulangara temple in Kuruvangad, Koyilandy. The deceased were identified as Leela (65), Ammukutty Amma (70), and Rajan. According to reports, all three died in the ensuing stampede.

Around thirty others sustained injuries, with eight in critical condition. The injured were shifted to Kozhikode Medical College and nearby hospitals.

The chaos began when an elephant, disturbed by the fireworks at the temple, charged at a nearby elephant.As people rushed to escape, the ensuing stampede resulted in tragic fatalities. The mahouts eventually managed to bring the elephants under control.

The elephants destroyed the roof and office of the temple building.