A red SUV crashed through a wall of a house on the Pala‑Thodupuzha road in Ainkombu, Kottayam, around 5 PM on Sunday, flipping onto the backyard and scattering debris across the compound. The vehicle, owned by residents of Muthalakodam, was en route from Malarikkal when the driver lost control after reportedly falling asleep at the wheel. Ten occupants emerged with only minor injuries, and none sustained serious harm. CCTV footage shows the car racing at high speed before striking the wall and tumbling onto its roof.
Police say the driver, a 45‑year‑old Muthalakodam resident, fell asleep on the wheel after a long drive. The SUV, a red Toyota Land Cruiser, was traveling at an estimated speed of 90 km/h before impact. The vehicle was seized by authorities at the scene, and investigators are reviewing the footage and the driver's medical records.
The incident follows a series of high‑speed crashes on the same stretch of road, which has been flagged for safety improvements. Residents of Ainkombu reported seeing the vehicle's headlights flash before the collision. The local community has expressed frustration at the lack of speed enforcement, and a petition demanding a speed‑camera installation has already gathered over 1,500 signatures.
Kottayam Police Commissioner Ramesh Kumar said the investigation will focus on the driver's fatigue and the vehicle's maintenance records. He added that a report will be filed within the next 48 hours. In the meantime, the family of the occupants has been offered medical support and counseling services.
The incident is expected to prompt a review of the Pala‑Thodupuzha road safety measures. Police will hold a press briefing next Monday to outline the findings and any forthcoming measures.