A tragic incident in Bengaluru has resulted in the death of a 29-year-old software engineer following a dispute over cigarettes. The incident occurred in the early hours of May 10th near Vasanthapura Cross on Kanakapura Road.

The victim, identified as HN Sanjay, was with his colleague Chetan when the altercation took place. According to police reports, Sanjay and Chetan had stepped out for tea around 3:50 AM after working a night shift from home. While they were at a roadside tea stall, a man named Prateek arrived in a Hyundai Creta and allegedly asked Sanjay to buy him a cigarette. Sanjay refused, leading to a heated argument.

Witnesses, including Prateek's wife and a nearby shopkeeper, intervened to de-escalate the situation. However, as Sanjay and Chetan left the scene on their motorcycle, Prateek allegedly followed them in his car. Near Konanakunte Cross, Prateek deliberately rammed his car into the bike, causing a severe collision.

The impact of the crash threw Chetan onto the car's bonnet, resulting in minor injuries. Sanjay, however, suffered critical head injuries after falling onto the pavement and hitting his head against a pharmacy shutter. Both men were immediately rushed to a nearby hospital. Sanjay succumbed to his injuries two days later. Chetan is still receiving treatment for his injuries.

Initially, the incident was treated as a road accident. However, upon reviewing CCTV footage, police discovered that the car ramming was intentional. The footage reportedly captured Prateek following the motorcycle at high speed and deliberately crashing into it. Subramanyapura police have registered a murder case and arrested Prateek. He is currently in judicial custody. Authorities have stated that Prateek's wife was present in the car but had no involvement in the crime. Prateek's blood alcohol levels indicated he was intoxicated at the time of the incident, as he and his wife were returning from a birthday party.

Following the tragedy, Sanjay's family made the commendable decision to donate his organs to Aster RV Hospital in Bengaluru. Sanjay was the son of Kamalamma and Narayana from Honnavar village in Hassan district and was residing in Bengaluru. The police investigation is ongoing, with authorities examining all aspects of the case to ensure a thorough and just outcome. This incident highlights the dangers of road rage and the devastating consequences of reckless behavior.