IMSU Car Crash: Police Arrest Driver Over Student's Death, Launch Probe

The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 30-year-old man, Dike Chibuike Micheal, following a fatal road crash that claimed the life of a 19-year-old student near the main gate of Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri.

The accident, which occurred at about 6:30 p.m on Sunday, July 26, 2026, has attracted widespread attention after video footage of the incident circulated on social media.

The deceased, identified as Chibuike Friday, an indigene of Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was pronounced dead after the crash, while another victim, Bright Ukwuoma, sustained injuries and is receiving medical treatment.

According to the Imo State Police Command, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect, an indigene of Umuolowu, Ejemekuru, Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, was driving a Lexus ES 350 with registration number KWU 766 AE at excessive speed when the incident occurred.

Police alleged that the driver was participating in an illegal street race before losing control of the vehicle.

The command said the vehicle struck Friday as he attempted to cross the road before veering into Ukwuoma, leaving him injured.

The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, said officers attached to the Orji Police Division responded promptly after receiving a distress call.

According to him, the officers arrested the suspect and rescued him from an angry mob that had gathered at the scene.

Both victims were immediately taken to hospital.

"One of the victims, Chibuike Friday, was confirmed dead by medical personnel, while Bright Ukwuoma is currently receiving treatment," Okoye said.

He added that the deceased's body has been deposited in a morgue for preservation and autopsy.

Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Audu Garba Bosso, condemned what he described as the alleged reckless driving that resulted in the student's death.

Bosso expressed condolences to the bereaved family and wished the injured victim a speedy recovery.

He also directed the State Traffic Department to conduct a comprehensive investigation into both the immediate and remote causes of the crash.

The commissioner assured residents that the suspect would be prosecuted if found culpable at the conclusion of investigations.

Bosso warned motorists against excessive speeding, reckless driving and other traffic violations, stressing that compliance with road traffic regulations remains essential to protecting lives.

He reaffirmed the command's commitment to enforcing traffic laws, safeguarding lives and property, and ensuring that offenders are brought to justice.