Three persons have died in a road accident on the Aseseaso-Somanya-Trom road in the Eastern Region.
Several others are critically injured and are receiving treatment at the Koforidua Central Hospital.
The accident occurred on the evening of Monday, April 22, 2024, when a Toyota minivan, registration number GT 5990-21, traveling from Accra to Kpong, veered off the road and somersaulted into a bush while descending the Aseseaso curvy mountain.
Passengers trapped in the vehicle were rescued by Police, Fire, and Ambulance Service personnel. The rescued victims were taken to the Atua Government Hospital and Yilo Krobo District Hospital for treatment.
Two people died at the scene, while a third succumbed to the injuries at the Yilo Krobo District Hospital. Medical Director of the Yilo Krobo District Hospital, Dr. Francesca Mensah Darkwah, confirmed the casualties.
Dr. Darkwah stated that five victims with severe head injuries, major limb fractures, and other critical conditions have been referred to the Koforidua Central Hospital. Four more are undergoing extended 24-hour monitoring at the Yilo Krobo District Hospital, while one has been discharged.
“Four patients remain at the Yilo Krobo facility under 24-hour observation due to minor abrasions on the face and minor fractures.”
In response to the incident, Dr. Francesca Mensah Darkwah cautioned drivers to rest if they feel tired, in order to prevent future accidents.
“Life is important; motorists who feel sleepy should park and rest for a while, and they should also avoid speeding. Passengers should alert drivers to stop speeding or take action by getting out of the vehicle,” she said.
The Police are investigating the cause of the accident to determine whether it was due to brake failure, driver fatigue, or speeding on the mountainous and curvy road.
Due to traffic congestion on the Somanya-Dodowa road, many motorists are using the Aseseaso-Somanya road, which has recently been re-coated. This alternative route’s curvy nature may have contributed to the accident.
The deceased include a female teacher, the driver’s mate on minivan, and a third unidentified person. Their bodies have been taken to the Yilo Krobo District Hospital mortuary.
By Yvonne Neequaye
