Kozhikode, 12 Jan (H.S.):Three people were killed and two others sustained injuries in a tragic road accident at Kunnamangalam on the outskirts of Kozhikode in the early hours of Monday.

The accident occurred when a pickup van and a car collided head-on at Pathimangalam, under the Kunnamangalam police station limits.

According to police sources, the mishap took place at around 2.50 a.m.

The pickup van was travelling from the Wayanad side towards Kunnamangalam, while the car was heading in the opposite direction from Kunnamangalam towards Koduvally.

The vehicles reportedly crashed into each other after veering into the opposite lane, resulting in a severe impact.

Two passengers travelling in the car and the driver of the pickup van died on the spot due to the intensity of the collision.

The identities of the deceased are yet to be officially released, pending confirmation by authorities and intimation of their relatives.

Two other persons who were injured in the accident were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their condition is said to be stable, according to preliminary medical reports.

Both vehicles were completely mangled in the crash, leaving the occupants trapped inside. Fire and Rescue Services personnel from Vellimadukunnu rushed to the scene soon after receiving the alert. Using hydraulic cutters and other rescue equipment, the firefighters managed to cut open the wreckage and extricate the victims.

Police have registered a case and initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident. Preliminary findings suggest that overspeeding or loss of control during late-night travel may have contributed to the crash, though officials said a detailed inquiry is under way.

The incident once again highlights growing concerns over road safety during night hours, especially on highways and busy inter-district routes. Authorities have urged motorists to exercise caution, adhere to speed limits, and avoid fatigue-related driving, particularly during early morning hours when visibility and alertness can be compromised.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman