Minitruck hits four schoolgirls in Hamamatsu, killing one

In Hamamatsu, Japan, a tragic accident occurred on Monday when a 78-year-old man driving a mini truck struck four elementary school girls riding bicycles, resulting in one fatality and serious injuries to another girl. The incident happened around 4:35 p.m. as the truck veered from the road into pedestrian space, hitting the children from behind. The driver was arrested for alleged negligence and admitted to hitting the girls but could not recall the events leading up to the accident. This incident has raised alarms about the dangers posed by elderly drivers, prompting renewed calls for enhanced road safety awareness in Japan. Local authorities have noted that accidents involving older drivers have been a growing concern, leading to increased safety campaigns. The two surviving girls sustained injuries that were not life-threatening, according to officials.