The driver arrested over the fatal multi-vehicle crash in Mattakkuliya has claimed that the electric car he was driving suddenly accelerated on its own, causing him to lose control of the vehicle, Police said.
According to Police, the driver claimed that the vehicle accelerated unexpectedly without any action on his part, leaving him unable to control it.
Police told the court that a technical examination of the vehicle would be conducted by an expert committee headed by the Commissioner General of Motor Traffic to determine whether a mechanical or technical defect contributed to the accident.
The Police also intend to obtain a psychiatric assessment through a medical board.
Meanwhile, the driver’s lawyers disputed allegations that he had consumed cannabis.
They told the court that their client had never consumed alcohol or illicit drugs and was taking Ayurvedic medication for asthma and diabetes. The lawyers argued that the medication could have contributed to the substance detected during medical testing.
The defence also maintained that a mechanical defect in the electric vehicle had caused the accident.
Police opposed granting bail, arguing that releasing the suspect could lead to public unrest.
After considering the submissions, the magistrate ordered the driver remanded in custody.
Three people were killed and 12 others were hospitalized following the multi-vehicle crash in Mattakkuliya on Sept. 16.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation, and the driver’s claim of unintended acceleration has not been independently established. (Newswire)
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