A tragic accident occurred in the early hours of Sunday (26) in the Mee Oya area of Galgamuwa, where a van transporting pilgrims veered off the road, resulting in one fatality and 13 injuries.
Police suspect the driver, traveling from Padeniya towards Anuradhapura, fell asleep at the wheel. The van veered off the road, hit a bridge, and then collided with a tree.
Around 15 people were in the van at the time of the accident. One person died on the spot, and 13 others were injured and admitted to Galgamuwa Hospital. Seven of those injured were later referred to Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital for further treatment, according to hospital sources.
The deceased has been identified as a 69-year-old resident of Embilipitiya. Galgamuwa Police are conducting further investigations into the accident.