Overview
- The collision occurred on Sunday, October 11, 2026, near Hattaragi toll plaza and killed three devotees who were identified by police as Prakash, Mahesh and Daneshwari.
- More than 10 people were injured in the procession crash, with four in critical condition, and victims were taken to Belagavi Institute of Medical Sciences and nearby private hospitals for treatment.
- Yamakanamaradi police officers reached the scene and have opened an investigation into how the truck struck the returning procession from behind.
- On the same day in Hukkeri taluk, a state transport bus rear-ended a tipper on National Highway 48 near Sankeshwar, killing the bus driver and injuring 12 passengers who were treated at Sankeshwar Taluk Hospital.
- Devotee processions often move slowly on or near busy roads during idol returns, and officials and local residents will be watching the police probe for findings and any steps to improve traffic control and emergency response.