A tragic accident occurred at the Matara Prison resulting in the death of one inmate and injuries to at least ten others. A large Bo Tree, which was situated within the prison grounds, unexpectedly collapsed, causing chaos among the incarcerated population.
The tree, known for its historical significance and towering presence, fell during the morning hours when many inmates were in the vicinity. Immediate emergency response teams were dispatched to the scene, and injured inmates were rushed to local hospitals for treatment.
One inmate was reported dead at the scene, and several others sustained injuries ranging from minor to severe. Authorities have confirmed that the victims are currently receiving medical care, though the severity of their injuries remains unclear.
The cause of the tree's fall is under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest that it may have been weakened by recent weather conditions.
The prison administration has expressed condolences to the family of the deceased inmate and is providing full support to those injured in the incident. The incident has raised concerns regarding safety measures at the facility, prompting a review of the prison’s infrastructure, especially concerning older trees within the premises.
Further details are awaited as authorities continue their investigation into the cause of the incident.
