Delhi teen arrested after Thar kills Bhopal tourist in Goa; cops to probe ‘seat swap’ twist

MAPUSA: The 19-year-old accused in a fatal road accident that killed a 65-year-old tourist from Bhopal has been arrested, police said on Wednesday. Bhagatram Sharma was killed on Monday when a speeding Mahindra Thar allegedly driven by Shaurya Goyal, a Delhi resident, collided with his Hyundai i20 at the Happy Bar junction in Assagao. Sharma, who was travelling with family members, sustained severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Two other occupants of the hatchback, including a five-month-old infant, suffered minor injuries and were taken to a nearby hospital. The infant remains under medical observation. Eyewitnesses claimed that occupants of the SUV attempted to switch seats immediately after the crash. Videos circulating on social media show a male occupant speaking on the phone, saying, “Papa, I was at the intersection…,” while three women are seen in the back seat. The footage also shows significant damage to both vehicles, with one side of Sharma’s car completely crushed. The incident sparked tension at the spot, with locals alleging attempts to shield the actual driver. Police said these claims are being investigated. Authorities have seized the rented SUV and registered a case of rash and negligent driving causing death. Investigators are examining CCTV footage, forensic evidence, eyewitness accounts, and video clips to confirm who was driving at the time of the collision. Anjuna police confirmed that Goyal has been taken into custody in connection with the case.(With agency inputs)