A 19-year-old pedestrian, Chibuike Friday, has been killed after a speeding Lexus allegedly taking part in an illegal street race rammed into him in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
The tragic incident occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Sunday at the front gate of Imo State University (IMSU) along Okigwe Road.
Another victim, Bright Ukwuoma, was also injured in the crash.
Police said the driver, Michael Chibuike Dike, 30, from Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, has been arrested and will face prosecution after investigations are completed.
According to the Imo State Police Command, preliminary findings revealed that Dike was allegedly participating in an unauthorised street racing event and driving at high speed when he knocked down Friday as the teenager attempted to cross the road.
The impact reportedly caused the driver to lose control of the Lexus ES350, which then struck Ukwuoma, leaving him injured.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye said officers from the Orji Division swiftly responded to a distress call, arrested the suspect and rescued him from an angry crowd that nearly attacked him.
Both victims were rushed to hospital, where Friday was confirmed dead, while Ukwuoma is currently receiving treatment.
The deceased’s body has been deposited in a morgue for autopsy.
Imo State Commissioner of Police, Audu Bosso, condemned the incident and ordered a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the fatal crash.
He sympathised with the family of the deceased, wished the injured victim a speedy recovery and assured residents that justice would be served.
The police also issued a stern warning to motorists against speeding, reckless driving and participation in illegal street racing, stressing that traffic laws must be obeyed to prevent further tragedies.
