Judge’s Minor Son Allegedly Rams Scooter With Mercedes, Kills 55-Year-Old Man In Kerala's Kochi

A 55-year-old man was killed in Kerala's Kochi in the early hours of Sunday after a Mercedes-Benz allegedly driven by the 17-year-old son of a judge rammed his scooter from behind. The luxury car was registered in the name of the judicial officer, police said.

The accident occurred between 2 am and 3 am. The victim, identified as Jayabalakrishnan, died on the spot, while the minor driver was taken into police custody.

Victim Was Returning Home After Running Food Stall

Jayabalakrishnan’s niece told reporters that he ran a food stall to earn his livelihood and was returning home when the accident occurred.

She alleged that the car was being driven at high speed, pointing to the extensive damage to her uncle’s scooter and the items he was carrying, which were scattered across the accident site.

“He died on the spot,” she said, as per media reports.

A video from the scene showed the Mercedes-Benz’s front section badly mangled following the collision.

Police Collect Blood Samples For Analysis

According to preliminary police findings, the minor was not under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. However, his blood samples have been collected for further analysis.

Police have invoked charges relating to reckless driving and causing death by negligence in connection with the incident.

Victim’s Niece Questions Minor’s Access To Car

Jayabalakrishnan’s niece also alleged that the minor’s father spoke to her disrespectfully at the police station when she questioned why his underage son had been allowed to drive the vehicle.

“We will move forward with the case, especially in view of the judge’s attitude. Also, it should be a lesson to everyone not to drive a vehicle without a licence,” she said.

Further details are awaited.