Grandfather & grand daughter among the victims at Fox Hill Super Cross 2024 (Video)

Update: The 2 drivers involved in the accident at Fox Hill Super Cross motor races arrested: Police

Seven individuals tragically lost their lives yesterday (21) during a harrowing accident at the Fox Hill Supercross motor race in Diyatalawa Fox Hill, held after a lapse of five years.

The devastating accident occurred during event for SLH Cars up to 2000cc . 

The fatal incident unfolded during a race when a car, navigating the left front section of the track, lost control, veered off the path, and overturned, bringing it dangerously close to a group of spectators on the right side.

In a panic-stricken moment, another speeding car (Subaru Legacy) approached from the right side, eand in an attempt to evade the onlookers, the driver of the speeding vehicle swerved off the road at the speed of 160km/h, tragically claiming the lives of five individuals on the spot.

Subsequently, 25 individuals injured in the accident were rushed to the Diyatalawa Base Hospital, where two succumbed to their injuries. Three critically wounded victims were later transferred to the Badulla Teaching Hospital for further medical attention, as confirmed by hospital authorities.

Among the deceased were army soldiers R. Abeynayake from Embilipitiya, Ganesh Jayawardena from Matara, Aruna Shantha Upali Gamage, and Ashen Heinatigala, along with Udayakumari and 08-year-old Dhanushika from Seeduwa. It was disclosed by authorities that Udayakumari and Dhanushika, residents of Welimada Diaraba area, were grandfather and granddaughter, respectively.

Additionally, two army personnel were among the injured, currently undergoing treatment at the Diyatalawa Base Hospital. Four organizers (Track Marshalls) of the Fox Hill race were also among those who lost their lives in the tragic accident. Of the injured individuals, 18 are male, and the remaining 5 are female.

The race had not been held since April 21, 2019, when it was abruptly halted due to the Easter attack.

The event held after 5 years saw a considerable public turnout for the tournament this year. However, following the devastating incident, event organizers have made the decision to cancel all remaining events in the race.