Multiple Feared Dead as Truck Crashes Into Busy Market

Multiple Feared Dead as Truck Crashes Into Busy Market

Tragedy struck in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State, on Friday, June 27, when a tipper truck loaded with shaft sand lost control and crashed into the bustling Mile 6 Market, leaving multiple people feared dead and several others injured.

According to eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred in the afternoon when one of the truck’s tyres reportedly burst while it was moving at high speed. This caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle, which then veered off the road and rammed directly into a crowded section of the market filled with traders and shoppers.

“It happened so fast. The truck was speeding, and after the tyre burst, the driver couldn’t steer. It just rammed into people,” a local vendor said.

The chaotic scene drew immediate attention from residents and emergency responders. Police officers and medical teams arrived swiftly to carry out rescue operations and transport the injured to nearby hospitals for urgent treatment.

As of the time of filing this report, authorities have not confirmed the exact number of casualties, citing ongoing efforts to identify victims and contact their families. The impact of the crash reportedly caused significant damage to market stalls and goods, deepening the loss for many small-scale traders.

The truck driver was arrested at the scene and is currently in police custody as investigations continue into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

In the wake of the tragedy, local officials have called for calm and promised to support those affected. The accident has also sparked renewed concerns about road safety and enforcement in the state, with residents urging authorities to implement stricter measures to prevent future occurrences.

The Mile 6 Market, known for its daily high volume of activity, remains closed as the community reels from the shock of the fatal accident.