Thar owner arrested after Patrapada hit-and-run tragedy that killed mother and child

Bhubaneswar, Sept 24: Khandagiri Police on Wednesday arrested Somnath Behera, the owner of the Thar vehicle involved in a fatal hit-and-run accident that claimed two lives in Bhubaneswar last month.

The tragic mishap occurred on the day of Raksha Bandhan at Patrapada under Khandagiri police limits. A speeding Thar car hit pedestrians, killing an eight-year-old girl on the spot and critically injuring her mother along with another person. Despite being rushed to the hospital, the girl’s mother later succumbed to her injuries, leaving the family shattered.

Police had earlier arrested three individuals linked to the incident and produced them in court. However, Behera, a resident of Jatni, had gone into hiding soon after the accident and remained absconding for nearly six weeks. Acting on credible intelligence, a police team tracked him to Puri and arrested him.

His arrest follows widespread protests and road blockades by locals and the victims’ relatives, who had been demanding swift justice and strict action.

Police Commissioner confirmed Behera’s arrest and assured that a detailed investigation is underway to ascertain his direct involvement and bring all responsible to book.