Daijiworld Media Network – Kundapur

Kundapur, Nov 4: A tragic accident claimed the life of an Ayyappa devotee during a foot pilgrimage from the Ayyappa camp to the Mandarti Shri Durga Parameshwari Temple in Kundapur taluk on Sunday. The incident occurred near Kannukere, close to Tekkate, when a speeding two-wheeler struck the pilgrims from behind.

The deceased has been identified as Surendra Mogaveer (35), a resident of Kumbri near Koteshwar. Another pilgrim also sustained injuries in the accident and is receiving medical attention.

According to police reports, the incident took place on 2 November at around 5:30 am, when about 15 Ayyappa pilgrims were walking along the Koteshwar route towards the Mandarti temple. Near National Highway 66 at Kannukere, a two-wheeler collided with Surendra and another pilgrim from behind. The impact caused all three—the rider and the two pilgrims—to fall onto the road.

Surendra suffered severe head injuries and was rushed to a hospital, but tragically he succumbed to his injuries, police said. The other pilgrim sustained injuries but is reported to be stable.

A case has been registered at the Koteshwara police station.