The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has verified the arrest of an unnamed driver who struck and killed a female pedestrian on Sunday at the Mosalasi Roundabout on Lagos’ Ipaja axis.
The terrible incident featured a black Toyota Tundra with the registration number FST 222 HV, which went onto a pedestrian walkway and struck an unidentified woman.
According to a statement issued by LASTMA spokeswoman Adebayo Taofiq on Sunday, the crash was a single occurrence caused by excessive speeding.
“In a most harrowing and unfortunate incident, a lone vehicular crash involving a black Toyota Tundra bearing registration number FST 222 HV tragically claimed the life of an innocent female pedestrian earlier today at the Mosalasi Roundabout, situated along New Ipaja Road in the Ipaja axis of Lagos State.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the vehicle, travelling at an egregiously excessive speed, veered uncontrollably off the carriageway, mounted the pedestrian walkway, and fatally struck a woman who died instantly from the impact,” the statement reads.
Taofiq went on to say that after hitting the pedestrian, the car continued its destructive route by colliding with a nearby cattle compound, causing damage to its outer fence and a billboard.
The driver reportedly tried to escape after realizing the seriousness of the situation.
However, he was swiftly arrested by LASTMA officers and turned over to police.
“The momentum of the vehicle subsequently propelled it into a nearby private premises known to be engaged in the sale of livestock, where it inflicted significant structural damage to the perimeter fence and an adjoining advertising billboard.
“Eyewitnesses at the scene report that the driver, upon realising the gravity of the calamity he had caused, made a frantic attempt to flee the scene.
“However, thanks to the prompt, coordinated and courageous intervention of officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the suspect was swiftly apprehended and restrained.
“In accordance with protocol, LASTMA operatives handed the driver over to security personnel from the Gowon Estate Command, who were present at the site of the incident,” the statement added.
Taofiq stated that the deceased’s remains were turned over to the police for proper investigation.
He further claimed that the driver is currently in police custody and being interrogated as part of an ongoing investigation.
In response to the event, LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, expressed deep grief over the loss and condolences to the victim’s family.
“This is a deeply sorrowful occurrence that underscores the grave consequences of reckless driving.
“We mourn with the family of the deceased and pray earnestly that the Almighty grants them the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss,” the statement reads.
