Dindori, April 12: In a tragic road accident early on Sunday, five people, including the driver of a pickup truck, were crushed to death and one person was critically injured on the Jabalpur Amarkantak National Highway near Kikratalab village under Gadasarai police station limits in Madhya Pradesh’s Dindori district.

The incident occurred around 1:00 a.m. when a group of villagers was returning home in a pickup truck. Near Kikratalab village, the vehicle suffered a sudden tyre puncture. The driver stopped on the roadside, and all occupants got out to help change the tyre.

Speeding Truck Ploughs Into Group

While they were standing beside the highway, a speeding truck coming from the opposite direction lost control and rammed into the group, crushing them under its wheels. Five men died on the spot, while one sustained critical injuries and was rushed to hospital.

Victims Identified, One Injured

The deceased have been identified as Rajkaran (35), Bihari (50), Pawan Maravi (35), Bisahu Dhrive (58), and another victim whose identity is yet to be confirmed. All were returning from a “Chowk” ritual in Silyari to their villages, Paraswah and Ufri.

Another victim, Kanhaiya, was seriously injured and admitted to Gadasarai hospital. Police said all the victims were family members from nearby villages.

Accused Driver Absconding

The truck driver fled the scene after abandoning the vehicle. Police have registered a case and launched a manhunt to nab the accused. Senior officials, including the superintendent of police, reached the spot soon after the incident.

Speed, Poor Visibility Suspected

Preliminary investigation suggests overspeeding as the primary cause of the accident. Locals also highlighted poor lighting and frequent heavy vehicle movement on this stretch of the highway as major safety concerns.

Police have urged people to avoid standing on highways at night and to use proper warning signals during vehicle breakdowns. The injured is under treatment, while the bodies have been sent for post-mortem. The incident has left the entire village in deep mourning.