Three dead, 16 injured in night crash after Otuke burial

OTUKE - Three people have been killed and 16 others injured in a tragic road crash in Otuke district after a vehicle returning from a burial reportedly overturned due to reckless driving.

According to North Kyoga Regional Police Spokesperson, Patrick Jimmy Okema, the fatal accident occurred on April 16, 2026, at around 8:00pm in Agwila Village, Adyerakonya Parish, Adwari Sub-county.

Police say the vehicle involved, an Isuzu (registration number UBR 316D), was travelling back from a burial when the yet-to-be-identified driver allegedly lost control while speeding and using a mobile phone.

The vehicle overturned, killing three occupants on the spot and leaving 16 others injured.

The deceased have been identified as Akello Sarah, 30; Omara Jasper, 27; and Odur Geoffrey, 25—all residents of Lira City. Their bodies were taken to Orum Health Centre mortuary pending postmortem examinations.

The injured victims were rushed to Lira Regional Referral Hospital for treatment.
Police officers, led by the Officer in Charge of Traffic, visited the scene and documented evidence, including drawing a sketch plan. The wreckage remains at the site awaiting removal.

Investigations are ongoing, with police yet to record statements from survivors. The case file will later be submitted to the Resident State Attorney for legal guidance.

Okema described the incident as unfortunate and extended condolences to the bereaved families. He also called on the driver, who is reportedly on the run, to surrender to authorities.

Police have urged all motorists to adhere to road safety regulations, warning against speeding and distracted driving, which continue to claim lives on Ugandan roads.
Independent sources say the driver was overspeeding and chatting on WhatsApp.