In a disturbing case of road rage fuelled by alcohol and a petty demand, a 29-year-old techie was killed and his friend injured in South Bengaluru after a drunk driver deliberately rammed his car into their two-wheeler. The incident occurred around 3:50 a.m. on May 10 and was reportedly triggered by the victim’s refusal to buy a cigarette for the accused.
The deceased has been identified as H.N. Sanjay, a resident of Vajarahalli near Kanakapura Main Road. His friend, 30-year-old Chetan Pujamath, a resident of JP Nagar 7th Phase, escaped with minor injuries. The accused, Pratheek (31), a BCom graduate and private firm manager from RR Nagar, has been arrested and is currently in judicial custody.
What Did The Police Say?
According to the police, Sanjay and Chetan had stepped out for tea late at night and were at a roadside stall when the incident unfolded. Pratheek, who was reportedly returning home with his wife after a birthday party and was under the influence of alcohol, approached the duo and demanded that they purchase a cigarette for him. When the men refused, a heated argument ensued. Sanjay and nearby bystanders intervened to de-escalate the situation, and Pratheek’s wife managed to get him back into the car.
However, moments after the altercation, as Sanjay and Chetan left on their motorbike, Pratheek pursued them in his vehicle. In a shocking act of vengeance, he rammed the car into their bike. While Chetan was thrown onto the car’s bonnet and managed to escape with minor injuries, Sanjay was flung forward, hitting a pharmacy shutter and the pavement. He suffered a critical head injury.
Sanjay was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday. The police, who had initially registered a case of attempted murder, upgraded the charge to murder following his death. Investigators confirmed that Pratheek’s wife was not involved in the crime.
The case has sent shockwaves through the city, with many calling for stricter action against drunk driving and road rage.
