By Hassan Osman Kargbo
A tragic road accident has been reported in the eastern part of Freetown, leaving one person dead and several others injured after a truck loaded with cement reportedly lost control near the busy Upgun area.
According to early reports, the incident occurred close to the Benz Garage near the traffic light at Upgun in the east end of Freetown. The truck, which was said to be carrying a large quantity of cement, allegedly veered off course before crashing into a commercial tricycle commonly known as a kekeh that was parked or moving along the roadside.
Eyewitnesses at the scene said the truck struck the kekeh and caused panic among pedestrians and motorists in the area. During the chaos, a woman who was reportedly crossing the road at the time of the accident was hit and later pronounced dead.
Residents and passersby quickly gathered at the scene as the situation unfolded. Some people attempted to assist the injured victims while others alerted authorities and emergency responders.
Witnesses described the moment as shocking, noting that the truck appeared to have lost control moments before the crash. The impact reportedly caused serious damage to the kekeh and left several individuals with injuries of varying degrees.
The identity of the deceased woman had not been officially confirmed at the time of reporting. However, those present at the scene said she was crossing the road when the accident occurred and was unable to escape the speeding truck.
Several injured persons were reportedly rushed to nearby medical facilities for treatment as bystanders and community members tried to provide immediate assistance before emergency services arrived.
The driver of the truck is said to have fled the scene shortly after the accident and his whereabouts remain unknown. This has sparked concern among residents who are calling for swift action to locate the driver and investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Traffic in the Upgun area was temporarily disrupted as crowds gathered and vehicles slowed down near the accident site. Some motorists were forced to take alternative routes while authorities worked to restore order and ensure the safety of road users.
Road accidents continue to be a serious concern in many parts of the city, particularly in busy commercial areas where heavy trucks and public transport vehicles share the road with pedestrians.
Authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the cause of the accident, including whether mechanical failure, speeding, or driver negligence may have contributed to the incident.
More details are expected to emerge as officials continue to gather information about the crash and the victims involved.
