At least 14 people were killed and 40 others injured on Sunday morning in India’s central city of Gwalior, authorities said, after an out-of-control truck hit a crowd of devotees. 

Indian media reported that the truck, loaded with paddy, broke through police barricades before it lost control and crashed into a temple’s outer wall and gate. The incident occurred around 1:30am local time on Sunday (2000 GMT Saturday). 

Gwalior Senior Superintendent of Police told News agency ANI that the incident occurred in an area where heavy vehicles are restricted. Of the injured, five to six people were in a critical condition.

An eyewitness told ANI that they saw some people die on the spot. “The truck was overloaded; it came suddenly and ran over some shops and people. My brother also sustained injuries,” the witness said. Others complained of delayed assistance and confused Information on treatment. 

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was ‘distressed’ to learn about the ‘mishap’, announcing monetary compensation for the next of kin to each of those who lost their lives. 

“I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the swift recovery of those injured,” Indian President Droupadi Murmu said on social media.

India, with 1.4bn people, recorded more than 183,000 road traffic deaths in 2025, or over 500 a day, according to the roads ministry.

The temple in question was devoted to an Indian Goddess, Sheetla Mata, who is revered for her healing powers and her association with relief from fever and disease.

Her devotees conduct certain ceremonies in the early hours of the morning when temperatures are cool. Her worship typically focuses on practices such as cold food offerings and avoiding use of fire.

DW