Three women died and 19 others were injured after the mini goods carrier in which they were all travelling capsized on the Seethapatty road near Viralimalai on Wednesday.
The deceased were identified as V. Peramayee (65), K. Azhagammal (70) and P. Thailammai (65) – all from Velur village in the district.
Police sources said around 40 villagers of Velur were travelling in the mini goods carrier to attend a condolence at Thalambalam village when the accident occurred. The vehicle toppled at a turning and those on board were thrown out of the goods carrier.
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While Peramayee and Azhagammal died on the spot, Thailammai died on the way to the hospital. Nineteen others who sustained injuries were admitted to the Government Hospital at Manapparai.
The vehicle driver Mookan who escaped from the spot was later held. The Viralimalai police have registered a case.