Cheranalloor accident: Learned to drive from YouTube, evidence obtained from Instagram

KOCHI: The CCTV visuals of the Cheranalloor accident surfaced on Tuesday. The footage showed the 17-year-old taking the car from his apartment in Companypady Aluva at 1:36 AM on Sunday, amidst heavy rain.

The minor’s father—a judge—said he was unaware of what happened as the son last told him that he was going to take a long sleep and suggested that no one disturb him till Sunday evening. Meanwhile, the investigation team said that there are several inconsistencies in the statements given by the 17-year-old accused.

The boy claimed that he took the Mercedes-Benz out simply because he wanted to drive it, and that he learned how to drive the vehicle by watching YouTube. However, the investigation team is not buying it.

Several posts on Instagram suggested that the 17-year-old frequently drove the car around the city despite not having a license. However, the investigation team discovered that this evidence was deleted from Instagram following the accident. The 17-year-old had recorded footage of driving on his own phone; these videos clearly show the vehicle being driven at speeds of around 104 km/h. Reports indicate that the judge purchased the 2012-model black Mercedes-Benz in 2022.

A case of culpable homicide was registered against the 17-year-old. The judge, who is the registered owner (RC holder) of the vehicle, has also been included as an accused in the case for allowing his minor son to drive it, in violation of the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. The District Crime Branch will investigate the case.

The accident occurred in Cheranalloor between 2:15 AM and 2:30 AM on Sunday. The victim, Jayabalakrishnan (55)—who was traveling on a scooter died in the accident. Jayabalakrishnan ran a roadside food stall near the Chittoor temple.