Jalandhar (Punjab) [India], July 16 (HBTV): Legendary athlete Fauja Singh, popularly known as the Turbaned Tornado, died at the age of 114 in a road accident on the Jalandhar-Pathankot National Highway on Monday. He was struck by an unknown white vehicle during his routine walk and later succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

The incident occurred around 3 pm on Monday, when Fauja Singh, a resident of Beas village under Adampur police station, stepped out for a walk after lunch. While walking alone towards the highway, he was hit by a speeding vehicle. He was rushed to Shriman Hospital, where he died during treatment at 7 pm, according to police.

‘A CCTV footage has just surfaced, in which Bapu is seen walking alone,’ said his son Harvinder Singh. He added, ‘Police have got some CCTV footage. Another person has not yet returned home, and once he arrives, more footage will be reviewed.’

Harvinder Singh shared emotional memories of his father, saying, ‘Bapu used to keep a combination of clothes. He wore matching turbans and branded shoes, often costing more than INR 10,000. He loved to dress well and always spoke about the price of his shoes in pounds.’

He further added, ‘Even at 114, he was fit and active. Principals used to give Bapu's example to children in schools. Despite having foreign citizenship, he preferred to stay in his country, especially during winters.’

Recalling his father's last wish, Harvinder said, ‘He wanted to spend his final days in his village.’ He also mentioned that discussions were underway with villagers about building a memorial in Fauja Singh's honour. ‘He was an inspiration for the youth, so we will soon place this demand before the administration,’ he said.

Senior Superintendent of Police Harvinder Singh Virk confirmed that a case had been registered based on Harvinder Singh's statement. The police are analysing CCTV footage from nearby areas to trace the vehicle.

‘Different teams, including the CIA, are investigating the case. Parts of the broken bumper have been found at the spot. Mechanics are analysing them to identify the vehicle,’ SSP Virk said. He added that initial investigation suggests the vehicle could be an Innova, Scorpio, or Fortuner.

The case is being investigated by multiple teams using CCTV footage from the vicinity. SSP Virk noted that the high volume of traffic on the highway at the time has made the process more complex. Some parts of the broken vehicle bumper were recovered at the scene by police.

Further investigation is underway.

(ANI)