NEDUMBASSERY: Magician and dancer Pallikkara native Avvai Santhosh (Santhosh John, 44) died after his bike collided with a tanker lorry on the national highway. The accident occurred around 1 am on Friday in Kunnumpuram. Santhosh was returning home after a program in Pattambi when his bike hit the rear of a tanker lorry. The truck did not stop after the accident.

Although the locals rushed Santhosh to Kalamassery Medical College, his life could not be saved. Nedumbassery police have initiated further proceedings. The body was sent for post-mortem at Kalamassery Medical College and later handed over to the family.

Santosh had performed thousands of shows both in India and abroad. He was the son of Leelamma, who went viral for her dance at a wedding, and the late John. He is survived by his wife Sheena and children Johnlu and Aleena (students). The funeral will take place on Saturday at 2 p.m. at St. Antony’s Forane Church Cemetery, Kizhakkambalam.