Nigerian authorities have launched a major search operation for a lorry driver who fled the scene after a devastating collision involving British boxing champion Anthony Joshua.
Details of the Fatal Collision Emerge
The incident occurred earlier this week near Lagos, Nigeria. The Lexus SUV carrying Anthony Joshua collided at high speed with a stationary heavy goods vehicle (HGV) that was illegally parked on the highway. Tragically, both of Joshua's close friends, Sina Ghami and Kevin Latif Ayodele, lost their lives in the crash. Joshua himself sustained minor injuries and remains in hospital, where he has been joined by his mother, Yeta Odusanya.
Preliminary investigations by the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency point to excessive speed as a primary cause. A spokesperson, Babatunde Akinbiyi, stated that the SUV was overspeeding when its front passenger-side tyre burst, leading to a loss of control before it swerved into the parked truck.
Police Investigation and Driver Hunt Intensifies
The Nigerian Police Force has confirmed that the driver of the soya bean truck is now officially wanted. A police officer revealed the truck was parked illegally, was not broken down, and the driver was absent from the vehicle at the time of the accident. The wrecked HGV has since been located and towed to the Sagamu car pound, where it remains under police guard, showing significant damage.
In a new development, the driver of Joshua's car has been discharged from hospital. Police spokesperson CSP Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the driver is currently giving his statement and could potentially face prosecution for reckless driving.
Eyewitness Accounts and Ongoing Recovery
An eyewitness described the moments after the crash to the Punch newspaper, revealing Joshua was seated behind the driver in a two-vehicle convoy. The witness and others began the rescue effort before officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps arrived.
Anthony Joshua is expected to stay in hospital for a few more days as he continues to recover from the physical and emotional trauma of the accident that claimed the lives of his two friends. The police investigation continues as the manhunt for the missing truck driver unfolds.
