A 40-year-old man who sustained critical injuries in a scooter accident at Verna earlier this week succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment at the Goa Medical College (GMC), Bambolim, police officials confirmed on Wednesday. The incident has once again drawn attention to the risks faced by two-wheeler riders and the importance of road safety, particularly during night-time travel.
The deceased has been identified as Vishwanath Pednekar, a native of Maharashtra who was residing behind the Collector’s Office in Margao. He had been battling for life since the accident occurred on December 23, but despite sustained medical intervention, he passed away two days later.
Police Receive Intimation of Death From GMC Bambolim
According to the Verna police, they received a wireless message from the Casualty Police at GMC Bambolim at around 9.54 a.m. on December 25, 2025, informing them about the death of the injured scooter rider. Following the intimation, police initiated the necessary medico-legal procedures as mandated under law.
Officials stated that upon receiving confirmation of death, a motor vehicle accident case was formally registered, and further investigation into the circumstances leading to the incident was taken up.
Accident Occurred Near Marina School at Verna
Preliminary police enquiries revealed that the accident took place on December 23, 2025, at around 9.35 p.m. The deceased was riding his Pleasure scooter from Sawantwadi towards Margao when the mishap occurred.
As he approached the area near Marina School at Verna, he reportedly lost control of the scooter and collided with a parked Suzuki Access scooter on the roadside. The impact of the collision resulted in serious injuries, particularly to the head and chest, leaving the rider unconscious at the scene.
Victim Initially Treated at SGDH Margao
Following the accident, the injured man was rushed to the South Goa District Hospital (SGDH), Margao, where he was provided emergency medical care. Due to the severity of the injuries and the deteriorating condition of the patient, doctors at SGDH referred him to Goa Medical College, Bambolim, for advanced treatment and specialised medical attention.
Despite continued treatment and monitoring at GMC, the victim’s condition failed to improve, and he ultimately succumbed to his injuries on December 25.
Post-Mortem Conducted, Cause of Death Confirmed
After his death, Verna police conducted an inquest panchanama in the presence of witnesses. The body was subsequently sent for a post-mortem examination at GMC Bambolim to establish the exact cause of death.
The police surgeon who conducted the autopsy certified that the death was caused due to craniocerebral damage associated with chest injuries resulting from blunt force impact, confirming the severity of the trauma sustained during the accident.
Body Handed Over to Family, Investigation Continues
Upon completion of all medico-legal formalities, the body of the deceased was handed over to his family members for the final rites. Police officials expressed condolences to the bereaved family and assured them that due procedure would be followed in the investigation.
Further enquiry in the matter is being carried out by PSI Mahesh Bhomkar of Verna Police Station, who is examining factors such as road conditions, visibility, vehicle positioning, and rider control at the time of the accident.
Renewed Focus on Two-Wheeler Safety in Goa
The fatal accident has renewed concerns regarding two-wheeler safety, especially in industrial and semi-residential areas such as Verna, where parked vehicles, low visibility, and late-night travel increase accident risks.
Police and road safety officials have reiterated the need for riders to maintain controlled speeds, wear protective headgear, and remain vigilant while navigating poorly lit stretches. Authorities have also urged motorists to avoid improper parking that could pose hazards to other road users.
Authorities Urge Caution and Responsible Driving
Officials stressed that while investigations will determine the exact sequence of events, accidents of this nature underline the importance of responsible driving behaviour and adherence to traffic norms. Regular awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of road safety regulations are being viewed as essential to prevent similar incidents in the future.