A tragic road accident has claimed the lives of four pedestrians along G.U. Ake Road in Rivers State after a Toyota Camry vehicle veered off course and rammed into them at midnight on Monday.
According to a statement released by the Rivers State Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-koko, the driver of the Toyota Camry with registration number ABJ 10 EM has been identified as 36-year-old Benson Peter Michael, who lost control of the vehicle before colliding with six pedestrians.
"Tragically, four of the pedestrians were confirmed dead at the scene, while two others sustained injuries and were immediately rushed to BMH Hospital for medical attention," Iringe-koko stated.
The police spokesperson confirmed that the driver is currently in police custody, and the vehicle involved in the accident has been recovered and taken to the police station for further investigation.
The remains of the deceased victims have been deposited at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) Mortuary, while authorities prepare to transfer the case to the State Traffic Department for comprehensive investigation.
"The Command deeply regrets the unfortunate incident and assures the public that justice will be served," the PPRO added in her statement.
This fatal accident adds to the growing concerns about road safety in Rivers State, particularly regarding nighttime driving and pedestrian vulnerability on major roads.
Authorities have not yet disclosed the identities of the victims as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
