Wedding Celebration Turns Tragic in Chatra Forest Crash
A joyous wedding celebration ended in tragedy early Sunday morning in Chatra district, when a car carrying guests back from the ceremony crashed violently into a roadside tree, resulting in one fatality and nine injuries. The devastating incident occurred around 4 am on the Itkhori–Pitij Road within the dense Bhurkunda forest area, casting a pall over the community.
Fatal Impact and Immediate Aftermath
The deceased has been identified as Manoj Ram, aged 40, a resident of Sirmatpur village. According to official statements from the Itkhori police station, the force of the collision was so severe that the front portion of the four-wheeler was completely mangled, indicating the high velocity at which the vehicle struck the tree.
Officer in-charge Abhishek Kumar Singh provided crucial details, stating, "The body was sent to the Chatra sadar hospital for post-mortem examination. A case has been registered. Preliminary investigation suggests that high speed and driver fatigue may have caused the accident." This initial assessment points to a combination of late-night travel and potentially exhausted driving as key factors behind the crash.
Injured Victims and Medical Response
The accident left a trail of injuries, with nine other individuals from Sirmatpur village sustaining harm. The four most seriously injured passengers were:
- Madesh Kumar
- Abhay Ram
- Rahul Kumar
- Aryan Kumar
These individuals were initially transported to the Chatra sadar hospital, where they received primary treatment. Due to the severity of their conditions, they were subsequently referred to higher medical centers in Hazaribag for advanced care.
In a slightly less critical group, five passengers suffered minor injuries. They were treated promptly at the Itkhori community health centre and were fortunate enough to be discharged after receiving medical attention, avoiding the need for extended hospitalization.
Investigation and Community Impact
The Itkhori police have launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event. The accident occurred in the Pratappur block area, where the wedding ceremony had taken place, adding a layer of sorrow to what should have been a festive occasion. The remote forest location of the crash in Bhurkunda presented additional challenges for emergency responders.
This incident highlights the ongoing concerns about road safety in rural and forested areas, particularly during late-night travel following social events. The community of Sirmatpur village now mourns the loss of Manoj Ram while supporting those recovering from their injuries, as authorities work to determine the exact sequence of events that led to this preventable tragedy.
