Three dead, 10 injured in Tatale–Zabzugu night crash

A fatal road crash on the Tatale–Zabzugu highway late Friday night claimed three lives and left more than ten others with serious injuries.

The collision occurred when a Kia truck loaded with traders returning from the Kukpalgu market slammed into a stationary Motorking tricycle that had broken down in the middle of the road. The Kia, registered GW-5828-17, was reportedly traveling at speed when the driver lost sight of the obstruction ahead.

Eyewitnesses said the crash happened under poor visibility conditions. The glare from an oncoming vehicle’s headlights reportedly blinded the Kia truck driver, preventing him from noticing the unlit tricycle in time to stop. The resulting impact was severe, scattering goods and debris across the road and trapping several passengers in the wreckage.

Two people were confirmed dead at the scene, while a third died shortly after arriving at the Tatale District Hospital. Over ten passengers sustained multiple injuries and were rushed to the same facility for emergency care. The deceased have been moved to the hospital’s mortuary for identification and further procedures.

Residents described the scene as harrowing, with local volunteers and emergency responders working through the night to rescue survivors and clear the wreckage. Authorities have begun preliminary investigations into the incident.

The tragedy has reignited public concern over the persistent danger of unmarked, broken-down vehicles on highways in the Northern Region. Many commuters and transport operators have long complained about the absence of warning reflectors or hazard lights on stalled vehicles, particularly during night hours.

Safety advocates have renewed calls for stricter enforcement of road safety laws and regular patrols to ensure that stationary vehicles are promptly removed or properly signaled to prevent similar accidents.

The Tatale–Zabzugu route has recorded several such incidents in recent months, heightening fears about the growing risks faced by traders and transport users who depend on the busy inter-urban corridor.