Jaipur, January 22, 2026: A tragic hit-and-run incident on the Jaipur Expressway claimed the life of an 18-year-old girl early Wednesday morning, police said. The victim, identified as Anaya Sharma, was struck from behind by a speeding Mahindra Thar SUV while jogging alongside the highway.
Anaya, a resident of Jhunjhunu district who had been staying in the Jhotwara area of Jaipur to prepare for armed forces physical tests, was out for her routine morning run with her sister when the collision occurred. She sustained fatal injuries and was declared dead at a nearby hospital.
Eyewitnesses said the black SUV was moving at a high speed when it hit Anaya from behind. The driver then fled the scene, abandoning the vehicle a short distance away. In the escape, the Thar also collided with other vehicles before the driver fled on foot.
Local police arrived shortly after being alerted by passersby. The abandoned Thar has been seized, and investigators are scouring CCTV footage and other evidence to identify and arrest the driver. Police have registered a case and launched a manhunt.
The accident has once again sparked concern over reckless driving and road safety on busy highways, with residents urging authorities to take stricter action against overspeeding motorists.
About the Victim: Anaya was reportedly selected for the Indian Air Force and was preparing for her physical fitness examination when the tragedy occurred. Her sudden death has shocked the local community and her family, who had hoped she would soon serve the nation.