Gandhinagar: Three people, including a woman, were killed and at least three others critically injured when a speeding Tata Safari, allegedly driven by a drunk man, ploughed into pedestrians and motorists on the service road from Bhaijipura to City Pulse in the Randesan area of Gandhinagar on Friday morning.
The driver, identified as Hitesh Vinubhai Patel, a resident of Por village currently living in Sector 5B, was reportedly under the influence of alcohol and driving recklessly at over 100 km/hr. The SUV caused a trail of destruction, resulting in at least four separate collisions within minutes. Police sources confirmed that Hitesh has a history of rash driving and has been involved in multiple accidents previously.
“This is not just an accident—it is a massacre caused by drunken negligence,” said Gandhinagar SP, Wasam Shetty condemning the tragic incident. “Three lives have been lost. Two senior citizens are fighting for their lives in the hospital. We have arrested the accused and he will undergo a thorough medical examination to confirm his intoxicated state.”
The deceased have been identified as Hansaben Rohitkumar Vaghela (56), Nitinbhai Pratapbhai Wheeler (63), and other unidentified person.
Meanwhile, three others, including Kaminiben Bipinbhai Ojha (65) and Mayurbhai Joshi (65) are undergoing treatment at SMVS and Civil Hospital respectively. Bipinbhai Ojha (75) also sustained serious injuries.
Vehicle Owner and Investigation
The Tata Safari (GJ 18 EE 7887) is registered in Hitesh Patel’s name. Forensic experts (FSL) have been roped in to determine the exact speed of the vehicle at the time of the crash. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage and collecting eyewitness statements.
Local residents are outraged. “This is a busy stretch. The car was moving like a bullet. People had no time to react,” said Rajesh Prajapati, a tea vendor who witnessed the crash. “It felt like a scene from a horror movie.”
Another eyewitness, Rekha Joshi, said, “We don’t feel safe walking on the roads anymore. Drunk drivers are roaming free. We demand justice and immediate police action.”
Public Outcry and Police Action
The tragic event has sparked fear and anger across Randesan and neighboring areas. Locals staged a small protest at the crash site, demanding installation of speed breakers, better surveillance, and stricter enforcement of drunk driving laws.
Police confirmed that Hitesh Patel has been taken into custody. “Strict legal action will be taken. We will ensure that such reckless behavior does not go unpunished,” said the investigating officer.
