The driver of the SUV conveying former world heavyweight boxing champion, Anthony Joshua, during a fatal accident on the Lagos–Ibadan Expressway has been discharged from hospital and may be charged with reckless driving, authorities have confirmed.
According to security sources, the driver has already given a statement to investigators and could be prosecuted as inquiries into the crash continue. The vehicle involved in the incident is currently being held at the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) office near the Sagamu interchange.
A spokesperson for the Nigeria Police Force, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed that the driver was released after receiving medical care and is cooperating with law enforcement agencies.
Officials also disclosed that the driver of the truck involved in the collision fled the scene immediately after the crash and has since been declared wanted.
Earlier findings by the Ogun State Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency (TRACE) linked the accident to excessive speed and a tyre failure. Preliminary investigations indicated that the front passenger-side tyre of the SUV burst, causing the driver to lose control before the vehicle rammed into a stationary truck parked along the expressway.
TRACE spokesperson, Babatunde Akinbiyi, explained that overspeeding played a significant role in the crash, noting that the tyre burst occurred while the vehicle was travelling at high speed, leading to the fatal impact.
Joshua, 36, was rushed to Duchess International Hospital in Lagos after the accident and is reported to be in stable condition.
Tragically, two members of his team, Sina Ghami and Latif Ayodele, lost their lives at the scene. Matchroom Boxing confirmed their deaths in an official statement, describing them as close friends and valued members of Joshua’s team.
Reacting to the incident, Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn expressed deep sorrow, paying tribute to the deceased and offering condolences to their families and loved ones.
Meanwhile, Joshua’s family said they were initially unaware of the accident. Speaking at the family residence in Ijokun, Sagamu, his uncle, Adedamola Joshua, described the news as shocking, adding that the family only learned of the crash after receiving calls from concerned individuals.
He noted that Joshua often visits home during festive periods, making the incident even more unexpected for the family.
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