Woman, infant killed in feast day tragedy

Yasaratne GAMAGE

Tragedy marred the festive atmosphere surrounding St Anthony's Church, Kochchikade on Wednesday when a 46-year- old woman and an eight month old infant were killed by a speeding car which rammed into a tent erected for devotees.

The incident took place in the wee hours of the morning while the festive mass was being celebrated.

The dead woman had been identified as Parameshwari Ratwani. It was not clear if she was the mother of the infant.The car which was travelling at high speed had suddenly emerged from George R de Silva Mawatha to Jampettah Lane in Kotahena where the prayer tent was erected.

The driver of the car fled the scene following the incident. The injured were admitted to hospital some of them in critical condition.

At the time of going to press the police was still hunting for the driver.