According to sources, a speeding trailer truck on the Raipur road rammed into a van, sending the latter crashing into a nearby electric pole.
This impact had further triggered a short circuit and led to a spontaneous fire, which not only gutted the vehicle but also a nearby stationery outlet.
The van driver, who was stuck in the vehicle, was charred to death and the remaining four persons, as per the eyewitness records, managed to escape with minor injuries.
The driver and cleaner of the trailer truck, allegedly responsible for the accident, fled from the spot and the authorities are on the lookout.
Fire tenders reached the spot and battled for several hours to douse the flames.
Police have registered a case and have launched an investigation into the accident.
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