By Alfred Opio
PALLISA — Residents along the busy Pallisa–Kumi road are in shock following a fatal road accident that claimed the lives of two men and left another victim critically injured.
The tragic crash occurred at Kakusi Village, casting a somber mood across communities in Pallisa District.
The deceased have been identified as Moses Otule, a resident of Otadan Cell in Kibale Town Council, and Galandi, a resident of Kawoken Cell in Pallisa Town Council.
According to preliminary police reports, the accident involved a Subaru Forester (registration number UA 637CB) and a Bajaj Boxer motorcycle (registration number UGA 745N). The vehicle was being driven by Gerald Engalu, a 31-year-old resident of Magwa Division in Jinja City.
Authorities say both the car and the motorcycle were traveling in the same direction—from Pallisa towards Kumi—at the time of the incident.
Eyewitness accounts indicate that the motorcycle, which was carrying two passengers, attempted a sudden right turn off the main road at Kakusi Village, reportedly heading toward a nearby home. The vehicle behind it failed to avoid the abrupt maneuver, resulting in a violent collision.
Galandi, the rider, died instantly at the scene due to severe injuries. Moses Otule, who was a passenger, was rushed to Soroti Regional Referral Hospital but later succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment.
Another passenger, identified as Gwere Peace, sustained critical injuries and is currently undergoing treatment at the same facility.
Police officers led by the Pallisa District Traffic Officer responded to the scene, secured the area, and initiated investigations. The injured were first taken to Pallisa General Hospital for initial treatment before referrals were made.
The bodies of the deceased were later conveyed to Pallisa General Hospital mortuary for postmortem examinations, while both the vehicle and motorcycle have been impounded at Pallisa Central Police Station pending inspection.
Police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause of the crash.
Speaking on the incident, Bukedi North Police spokesperson ASP Wilfred Kyempasa urged road users to exercise caution, particularly on busy highways.
He emphasized the importance of observing traffic rules, avoiding sudden maneuvers, and maintaining safe distances to prevent similar tragedies.
The accident has once again raised concern over road safety along the Pallisa–Kumi road, which continues to record frequent crashes.
As families prepare to lay their loved ones to rest, the community remains united in grief, mourning lives lost in a tragedy that underscores the urgent need for responsible road use.
