UPDATE: A tragic road accident on the A9 has claimed the life of Keshav Sharma, a 20-year-old passenger in a van involved in a collision with a lorry. The incident occurred on the northbound carriageway near Dalnaspidal, approximately 2.5 miles south of Dalwhinnie, at around 11:50 AM today, January 16, 2026.
Emergency services rushed to the scene but unfortunately, Keshav was pronounced dead at the site of the crash. The driver of the white Mercedes Sprinter van, a 52-year-old male, sustained minor injuries and was treated on-site by the ambulance service. Remarkably, no other individuals were reported injured in this devastating incident.
Following this heartbreaking news, an online fundraiser has been initiated to support Keshav’s family back in India. The GoFundMe page highlights Keshav’s dedication to his family, stating he had come to the UK to work and support his two young sisters. A statement on the fundraiser reads, “With heavy hearts, we are raising funds to support the family of a 20-year-old young man from India who tragically lost his life while working in Scotland.”
Keshav’s family, who are daily laborers, had taken out a substantial loan to send him abroad, believing he would provide better opportunities and financial support. The fundraiser aims to relieve some of the financial burdens they now face, covering living costs and educational needs for his sisters.
A spokesperson from Police Scotland confirmed the details, stating, “A 20-year-old man has died following a crash on the A9 in Highland Perthshire. The road was closed until around 9:00 PM to allow for an investigation at the scene.”
This tragic accident underscores the risks of road travel and the impact of such incidents on families and communities. As investigations continue, the local community is urged to lend support to Keshav’s family during this challenging time.
For those wishing to contribute, the GoFundMe page is open for donations, aiming to provide essential support to Keshav’s loved ones during this unimaginable loss.
