A tragic road accident in Islamabad has sparked outrage after two young women were killed by a speeding vehicle driven by a 16-year-old boy. The incident took place on Monday night at Secretariat Chowk, where a white Land Cruiser crashed into a scooty carrying the victims. The driver has been identified as Abu Zar, the teenage son of a sitting Islamabad High Court (IHC) judge. The case has triggered intense public debate on underage driving, legal privilege, and justice.
According to the FIR registered at the Secretariat Police Station, the victims — Samreen Hussain and her friend Tabinda Batool — were returning home from the Pakistan National Council of the Arts when the vehicle hit them from behind. Both women were critically injured and taken to a nearby hospital, where they later passed away. The accident has since dominated national discussion across social media platforms.
Police Say Teen Was Recording Snapchat Video at Time of Crash
Police officials reported that the accused admitted to filming a Snapchat video moments before the crash. He further claimed to have thrown away his mobile phone afterwards. Authorities also confirmed that the teenager had no driving licence, raising serious questions about why he was allowed to operate a heavy vehicle. On Tuesday, a local court approved a four-day physical remand and handed the boy over to police for further investigation.
The online reaction was immediate and intense. Social media users criticised the growing culture of reckless, underage driving and the fatal consequences that follow. Many questioned whether justice would be served in a case involving the son of a high-ranking judicial officer.
Calls for Accountability Grow as Family Negotiations Reportedly Begin
Journalist Saqib Bashir reported that attempts for an out-of-court settlement with the victims’ families had already begun. The accused is believed to be the son of Justice Muhammad Asif, who was recently transferred to Islamabad from Quetta. Following the incident, the judge reportedly went on medical leave, resulting in the cancellation of his bench’s cause lists.
Senior journalists drew parallels with previous high-profile cases involving children of influential figures. Absar Alam referenced the 2022 hit-and-run case involving Shanza Malik, daughter of a Supreme Court judge, suggesting that powerful families often evade consequences. Journalist Ehsan Wahid added further pressure by asking whether Justice Muhammad Asif would accept responsibility and ensure transparent justice.
As the investigation continues, the public is demanding equal accountability and legal action. The tragedy has reignited debate over privilege, road safety, and the rising dangers of underage drivers behind the wheel.
