Bhubaneswar, 06 January (H.S.): Two women, including a journalist, were killed in a road accident after a bus rammed into a scooter near Mangalpur Chhak under Pipili police limits on Tuesday.

According to sources, the mishap occurred when a speeding bus hit the scooter, critically injuring both riders. One of the victims, identified as journalist Sheela Pattnaik, died on the spot due to the impact.

The other woman sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries during treatment. Her identity has not yet been established.

The accident caused panic in the area, with locals gathering at the site soon after the incident. On being informed, police reached the spot and launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Police said further inquiry is underway to determine whether rash or negligent driving led to the fatal accident. Efforts are also being made to ascertain the identity of the second deceased woman and inform her family.

The incident has cast a pall of gloom in the area, particularly among members of the media fraternity, who expressed shock and grief over the untimely death of journalist Sheela Pattnaik.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda