Noida techie death: Autopsy says heart failure, family alleges negligence

January 19, 2026

An official autopsy report has revealed that 27-year-old software engineer Yuvraj Mehta, who died after his car plunged into a deep construction pit in Greater Noida’s Sector 150, succumbed to heart failure and asphyxiation. The tragic incident occurred late on January 17, when Mehta’s vehicle went out of control amid dense fog and fell into a water-filled pit dug for construction purposes.

Circumstances of the Accident

Mehta, a resident of the Tata Eureka Park society and working in Gurugram, was returning home from work when the accident took place at around 12.15 am. Locals and police teams, including the fire brigade, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), launched a rescue operation that extended for several hours before his body could be recovered.

Family Alleges Negligence

Mehta’s family has strongly alleged gross negligence on the part of authorities and developers. They claim that the dangerous stretch of road was unmarked, lacked reflectors and barricades, and had a known accident risk, which they assert contributed to the fatal crash. Residents reportedly lodged complaints earlier about the site’s hazards, but authorities failed to act.

Delay and Rescue Issues

According to eyewitness reports, Mehta managed to exit the submerged vehicle and pleaded for help for nearly two hours, even communicating with his father during the ordeal. Some witnesses claimed emergency responders were hesitant to enter the water due to safety concerns, which they believe delayed rescue efforts.

Police Action and FIR Lodged

In response to the family’s complaint, the Knowledge Park police station registered an FIR against two real estate developers under sections relating to culpable homicide and causing death by negligence. Police have stated that preliminary investigation pointed to fog and possible over speeding as contributing factors.

Administrative Response

The Noida Authority has ordered an inquiry into the incident and taken disciplinary action by terminating a junior engineer from the Traffic Cell and issuing show-cause notices to other officials responsible for traffic and safety in the area. Authorities have stressed that the ongoing probe will determine accountability and further legal action.

Public Outcry and Safety Concerns

The incident has sparked protests and candle marches by local residents demanding justice for Mehta and stronger safety measures in construction zones. Many are urging authorities to install proper barricades, reflectors, and warning signs at accident-prone sites to prevent future tragedies.