Shillong: A speeding dumper truck claimed four lives, including three minors, and left three others seriously injured in a horrific accident at Thadrang village, Ri-Bhoi district, on Friday evening. The incident occurred around 6:45 pm when the truck (ML05-AC-8447), travelling from Jowai towards Bhoirymbong, lost control and ran over the victims.
Three teenagers — Phibanpyntngen Rynjah (13), Lashimti Nongrum (13), and Ridahunlang Nongrum (13) — died instantly, while 19-year-old Theresa Nongrum succumbed to her injuries on Saturday morning. Another minor, 11-year-old Iupharisa Nongrum, remains in critical condition at a higher medical centre.
The driver, Ferlindes Rymbai (34), and his helper, Dwayne Dkhar (31), were also injured after the truck capsized in the aftermath of the crash. Police confirmed that the bodies of the deceased were handed over to their families after post-mortem examinations.
Ri-Bhoi SP Vivekananda Singh Rathore stated that the vehicle has been seized and a case registered. “Police will file appropriate charges under relevant sections of the law, pending medical reports of the injured, including the driver and helper,” he said. The tragic accident has sparked shockwaves in the community, with calls for stricter road safety enforcement.
