Ahmedabad, Nov 13 (IANS) The nephew of a BJP MLA was arrested in connection with a hit-and-run accident near Shilaj Circle in Ahmedabad that claimed the life of a 35-year-old Rapido passenger after a Range Rover allegedly rammed into the motorcycle and its driver fled the scene, officials said on Friday.

The accused, identified as Raghavendra Kushwaha, is the nephew of Bapunagar BJP MLA Dineshsinh Kushwaha.

Bopal police traced him during the investigation and arrested him along with the Range Rover allegedly involved in the accident on November 11.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (Sanand Division) Nilam Goswami said the accident occurred when a Rapido rider, Pradeep Dadwal, was taking passenger Harshadkumar Purbia from Ghatlodia to his workplace in Shilaj.

The collision took place near Shilaj Circle, when a Range Rover allegedly struck their motorcycle. Both men sustained injuries and were taken to Sola Civil Hospital before Purbia was shifted to CIMS Hospital for further treatment, where he died.

“During the investigation, we obtained the registration number of the car and found that it was being driven by Raghavendra Kushwaha. He was subsequently arrested,” Goswami said.

She said the accused had gone to Kalol to attend a party hosted by a friend and was returning home when the accident occurred.

After the collision, however, he allegedly fled the spot instead of stopping to help the injured.

Explaining the circumstances of the crash, Goswami said the preliminary investigation suggested that the Rapido rider was taking a right turn while the Range Rover was approaching from the opposite direction.

“Both vehicles initially slowed down, but a misunderstanding over which vehicle would proceed first led to the collision, with the SUV hitting the motorcycle from behind,” she added.

The officer said the preliminary investigation had not revealed that the accused was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident.

Following the incident, Bopal police registered an offence under provisions relating to fatal accidents and the Motor Vehicles Act.

The investigation led to the identification of the vehicle and its alleged driver. Police have seized the Range Rover, while forensic science laboratory (FSL) and Regional Transport Office (RTO) examinations are underway to establish further details.

“The accused’s statement has been recorded. His medical examination has also been conducted. The investigation is continuing, and further action will be taken if additional evidence emerges,” she told IANS.

The deceased, who was originally from Dhrangadhra in Surendranagar district, lived in Ahmedabad’s Shastrinagar area.

The accused was released on bail after his arrest, according to reports.

–IANS

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