One Dead, Several Injured in Tragic Truck Crash

A devastating road accident near the University of Cape Coast’s (UCC) West Gate on Thursday, June 19, 2025, has sent shockwaves across the nation, especially as graphic video footage of the incident circulated widely online. The distressing video depicts a sand-laden tipper truck losing control and ploughing into multiple vehicles and a pedestrian, leaving a scene of horrific carnage.

According to preliminary police reports from the Central Regional Police Command and eyewitness accounts, the incident occurred around 12:48 PM when a Donfeng tipper truck, registration number GN 5710-19, allegedly experienced brake failure. The truck, loaded with sand, was traveling from Bronyibima towards the DVLA junction when it veered off its lane, ran over the median, and crashed into a stationary Nissan Sentra saloon car (CR 1756-12), a Honda CRV 4×4 (CR 319-20), and an Apsonic motor tricycle. A pedestrian attempting to cross the road was also caught in the tragic event.

The Ghana News Agency (GNA) has confirmed that one person, identified as 19-year-old Wilfred Awusi Ninson, tragically died on arrival at the University of Cape Coast Hospital. His body has since been deposited at the hospital’s morgue for preservation and autopsy.

Five other individuals sustained varying degrees of injuries and are currently receiving treatment at the University of Cape Coast Hospital, where their conditions are reported to be stable. The injured victims have been identified as Mr. Kofi Kum (57), Ms. Anita Ansah (39), George Ayensu Peters (26), Charles Ayensu Peters (47), and Prince Anamag Baidoo (27).

The tipper truck driver, 29-year-old Bright Essel, has been arrested by the police to assist with investigations into the fatal crash. Both the Nissan Sentra and the tricycle were severely damaged, described as “totalled beyond redemption,” while the Honda CRV and the tipper truck sustained partial damage.

The harrowing video, which captured the moment the truck wreaked havoc, quickly went viral across social media platforms, sparking immense public outcry and an outpouring of concern for the victims. Users expressed deep alarm over the graphic nature of the footage and anxiously sought updates on the well-being of those involved.

This tragic incident has reignited pressing conversations about road safety in Ghana, particularly concerning the maintenance of heavy-duty vehicles and driver conduct. Statistics consistently highlight a worrying trend of road crashes in the country, often attributed to factors such as reckless driving, speeding, poor vehicle maintenance, and inadequate road infrastructure.

Authorities have cleared the accident scene to allow for the free flow of traffic, as investigations continue to ascertain the full circumstances leading to this devastating loss of life and injuries. The focus now shifts to ensuring justice for the victims and reinforcing measures to prevent such avoidable tragedies on Ghana’s roads.