Tragic Birthday Celebration Ends in Fatal Accident in Bhojpur
A joyous birthday celebration turned into a heartbreaking tragedy in Bhojpur district on Wednesday evening. A 9-year-old boy, identified as Pratik Kumar, lost his life after being struck by a speeding truck while on an errand to collect his birthday cake from a nearby market.
Details of the Fatal Incident
The unfortunate accident occurred in Ghaghar village, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Krishnagarh police station. Pratik Kumar, the son of Sujit Kumar Singh, was reportedly on his way to bring home his birthday cake when the speeding truck hit him. The impact was severe, and despite immediate efforts to save him, the young boy succumbed to his injuries while being transported to a hospital.
According to police reports, the truck driver attempted to flee the scene after the collision. However, alert villagers quickly chased down the vehicle and apprehended the driver. Station House Officer Raushan Kumar confirmed that the driver has been arrested, and the truck involved in the accident has been seized as part of the ongoing investigation.
Family's Heartbreaking Account
Raju Singh, the uncle of the deceased child, shared the family's anguish with mediapersons. "It was Pratik's birthday today," he said. "He was excitedly going to get his cake from the nearby market when this tragic accident happened. The truck hit him, and he was rushed to a local hospital in Saraiya Bazaar. From there, he was shifted to a private hospital in Ara, and doctors later referred him to Sadar Hospital in Ara. Unfortunately, he passed away on the way."
Public Outrage and Protest
The untimely death of the young boy sparked immediate outrage among local residents. Angered by the incident, locals blocked the Saraiya–Sinha Road in a spontaneous protest, demanding justice and better road safety measures. The road blockade caused significant disruption until senior police officers intervened and managed to persuade the protesters to lift the blockade, assuring them of strict action against those responsible.
Broader Implications and Community Response
This tragic incident has once again highlighted the critical issue of road safety, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where speeding vehicles often pose a grave threat to pedestrians, including children. The community's swift action in chasing down the fleeing driver underscores the collective frustration with such preventable accidents.
Local authorities have reiterated their commitment to enforcing traffic regulations more stringently to prevent similar tragedies in the future. The case is being investigated thoroughly, with charges expected to be filed against the truck driver under relevant sections of the law.
The family of Pratik Kumar is now left to mourn the loss of their young son on what should have been a day of celebration, a stark reminder of how quickly joy can turn to sorrow due to negligence on the roads.
