Brake Failure Causes Deadly Crash in Gombe, 11 Confirmed Dead

A tragic multi-vehicle collision in Gombe State has claimed the lives of eleven individuals. The devastating incident, which involved a large trailer, two cars, and five motorcycles, occurred on Thursday, October 22, at the Tashan Magarya Junction along the Gombe–Billiri road, specifically within Kumo in the Akko Local Government Area.

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) issued a report attributing the crash primarily to brake failure. According to their findings, the driver of a DAF trailer, which was en route from Gombe towards Yola, lost control of the heavy-duty vehicle. This mechanical failure led to the trailer veering off course and colliding with two Volkswagen Golf cars and five motorcycles, resulting in extensive damage and multiple fatalities. In total, eight vehicles were involved in the catastrophic pile-up.

Emergency responders from the FRSC were promptly alerted to the scene after receiving a distress call at 5:32 p.m. on the day of the incident. Their personnel arrived rapidly, reaching the crash site just two minutes later to commence crucial rescue operations. Several other individuals sustained injuries of varying degrees, including compound fractures, lacerations, and bruises. These injured victims were immediately evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Kumo for urgent medical attention.

Following the completion of the rescue efforts, the wreckage of the vehicles involved in the fatal accident was taken over by the Motor Traffic Division of the Nigeria Police Force in Kumo. They are expected to conduct further investigations into the circumstances surrounding the crash and take appropriate legal action.