Vijayapura: In a tragic accident during the Basaveshwar Fair near Kuntoji village in Muddebihal taluk, Vijayapura district, four people lost their lives and three others were seriously injured late Thursday night. The incident occurred when a speeding bike ran over pedestrians attempting to cross the road.

According to local media reports, seven people had stopped their car by the roadside to urinate after attending a cultural program at the fair. While they were crossing the road, a speeding Pulsar bike hit them, resulting in the deaths of three individuals on the spot. A fourth victim succumbed to injuries at the hospital.

The deceased have been identified as Ningaraj Chowdhury (22), the biker, from Talikote taluk; Anil Khenur (23), the pillion rider from Devarahippargi taluka; Uday Kumar Pyati (19), from Malagaldinni village, Muddebihal; and Rayappa Mahantappa Baagewadi (24), who died after being admitted to the Bagalkot District Hospital.

Eyewitnesses recounted that the victims were standing by the road when the accident took place. The bike, reportedly being driven recklessly while performing stunts, crashed into the group. The accident occurred on the busy state highway between Muddebihal and Talikote, which had drawn large crowds due to the fair's energy show competitions and night drama performances.

Among the injured, Shahid Hongond (19), Prashant H (16), and Hanumanta (18) were taken to the Bagalkot District Hospital in critical condition.

The Muddebihal police have registered a case and are conducting further investigations into the accident. The Basaveshwar Fair, which attracts visitors from nearby villages, has been marred by this devastating incident.