May 01, Colombo (LNW): Police have confirmed that the driver allegedly responsible for a devastating road accident near a Vesak Dansala at Meegoda Junction was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident.
The suspect, a 42-year-old man from Piliyandala, was taken into custody shortly after the crash and remains under investigation.
According to police reports, the vehicle, a cab travelling through the Meegoda area of Homagama on Saturday night, suddenly left the roadway and ploughed into a queue of devotees and residents gathered near a Vesak Dansala. Following the collision, the driver reportedly fled the scene before being apprehended by law enforcement officers.
The tragedy claimed the lives of six people, including three women and three men. The victims ranged in age from 15 to 58 years, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the incident. Authorities identified the deceased as women aged 15, 32 and 56, and men aged 35, 38 and 58.
A further seven individuals, among them a young child, suffered injuries and were admitted to Homagama Base Hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment. Hospital sources indicated that some of the injured required urgent care following the impact.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, particularly as it occurred during Vesak celebrations, a period traditionally associated with peace, reflection and religious observance. Residents expressed grief and disbelief as emergency responders worked through the night at the scene.
Police have launched a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the driver’s actions before and after the collision. Further legal action is expected as inquiries continue.