A policewoman and another person have been confirmed d3ad after a truck rammed into shops at the New Mile 3 Market on the outskirts of Gombe metropolis.
The tragic accident which was caught on camera, occurred on Wednesday, May 20, 2026 along the Gombe-Yola Federal Highway when a truck loaded with bags of grains reportedly lost control and crashed into roadside shops, k!lling two persons and injuring two others, including the driver.
A witness said the driver, who was travelling from the Taraba axis, suffered brake failure before losing control of the vehicle and crashing into nearby shops, destroying property and injuring traders and passersby.
Gombe State Police Command confirmed the incident, noting that the crash involved a DAF truck with registration number XH 122 GME, three motorcycles, pedestrians and several shops.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Buhari Abdullahi, said preliminary investigations indicated that the truck driver was attempting to enter a filling station through a one-way access when the vehicle reportedly developed brake failure.
According to him, the driver subsequently lost control and rammed into motorcycles, pedestrians and nearby shops.
“As a result of the accident, two persons, namely Woman Police Constable Sharifa Gaina, attached to the Communications Department of the Gombe State Command, and one unidentified male pedestrian, regrettably lost their lives, while two other persons, including the truck driver, sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment,” the PPRO stated.
“The accident also caused damage to three motorcycles and some nearby shops.”
The police spokesperson added that the Commissioner of Police, CP Umar Ahmed Chuso, warned motorists against traffic violations and urged drivers to ensure proper maintenance of their vehicles and strict compliance with road safety regulations to prevent avoidable accidents.
Meanwhile, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya expressed sadness over the incident, describing the crash as heartbreaking and unfortunate, especially given the loss of lives and destruction of property.
He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the peaceful repose of their souls.
The governor also sympathised with those injured in the accident and wished them speedy recovery.
Yahaya commended the swift response of security personnel, emergency responders and relevant agencies involved in rescue and assessment operations at the scene.
He further called on motorists, particularly drivers of heavy-duty vehicles, to strictly adhere to traffic regulations and safety measures, stressing that responsible driving remains essential to preventing avoidable tragedies on the roads.
The governor assured residents that his administration would continue to support initiatives aimed at safeguarding lives and improving road safety across the state.
