A tragic incident unfolded on Friday night in the Hassan district of Karnataka, as a truck ploughed into a Ganesha immersion procession, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. The incident occurred in Mosale Hosahalli village around 8:45 pm during the final day of Ganesha Chaturthi celebrations.

Initial reports indicated that six people died. However, the death toll has since risen to eight. Some reports even claim nine fatalities. Over 20 people sustained serious injuries and were rushed to various hospitals in Hassan, with several reported to be in critical condition. Most of the deceased are believed to be young boys. Some reports indicate that five of the deceased were engineering students.

Eyewitnesses reported that the truck, which was reportedly coming from Arakalagudu, lost control and crashed into the devotees. According to police, the truck swerved to avoid a motorcyclist, causing the driver to lose control and veer into the procession. A villager described the horrifying scene, stating that people were singing and dancing when the truck suddenly came straight at them. Four people died instantly after being trapped under the truck's wheels.

The driver, identified as Bhuvsnesh, allegedly attempted to flee after the accident but was apprehended by the crowd, roughed up, and handed over to the police. Police have registered a case of rash driving against the driver, who is now in custody.

Expressing grief over the mishap, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H D Kumaraswamy said he was deeply shocked and saddened by the loss of lives. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh to the families of those who lost their lives in the tragedy. He also expressed his condolences and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. Kumaraswamy appealed to the state government to provide free treatment to those injured in the accident.