Girl dies after car ploughs into mourners outside DHA imambargah in Karachi

A young girl who was critically injured when a speeding vehicle rammed into a gathering of mourners outside an imambargah in Karachi’s Defence Housing Authority (DHA) has died, police said Monday, as authorities registered a case against the suspects under anti-terrorism and attempted murder laws. Police identified the deceased as Zunaira, daughter of Akram. She had been shifted to a private hospital in critical condition following the incident but later succumbed to her injuries. More than a dozen people were injured when the fast-moving Suzuki vehicle crashed into a tent erected by mourners outside the imambargah. Most of the injured were women, according to police and rescue officials. DIG South Asad Raza said seven injured persons remain under treatment at two private hospitals, while others were discharged after receiving medical care. The incident triggered panic at the scene. Videos circulating on social media showed injured people lying on the road as mourners called for ambulances and assistance. Police have registered an FIR incorporating provisions of the Anti-Terrorism Act, attempted murder, damage to property, and negligent and reckless driving. Investigators said three suspects have been taken into custody. Darakhshan police arrested the third suspect, identified as Momin, from Qasba Colony after he allegedly fled the scene. Earlier, the driver, Zahid, and another companion were arrested at the site of the incident. According to police sources, the suspects belong to the Qasba Kati Pahari and Banaras areas of Karachi. Initial medical examinations confirmed that all three were under the influence of intoxicants at the time of the incident. Preliminary investigations suggest the suspects were returning from Sea View after consuming drugs when they encountered a police checkpoint. Investigators said the driver attempted to evade police by speeding away, causing the vehicle to lose control and crash outside the imambargah. Police clarified that a fourth individual initially taken into custody was not associated with the suspects and was, in fact, a passerby who was injured after being struck by the vehicle. The three suspects remain in custody and are being interrogated. Police said they are awaiting final medical reports as the investigation continues.

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