Student killed in overloaded car, driver six times over legal limit

Authorities in Nicosia are continuing their investigation into a fatal car crash that killed 20-year-old Irini Kontogiorgou, a Greek university student, early Sunday morning.

The accident occurred on Archangelou Michael Avenue in Egomi, where a rented car driven by another 20-year-old student lost control, crashing into a wall and a traffic sign. Kontogiorgou, one of seven passengers, suffered a fatal head injury and was pronounced dead at Nicosia General Hospital.

Rain Added to the Night’s Tragedy

The group of friends initially began their journey with five passengers in the car and two others following behind on scooters. However, due to heavy rain, the two on scooters abandoned their vehicles and joined the others in the car, overloading it to a dangerous level.

At the time of the crash, there were seven individuals crammed into the vehicle — three in the front, three in the back, and one reportedly riding in the trunk, according to testimony being investigated by the police.

Driver Allegedly Drunk

The driver’s final breathalyzer test revealed a blood alcohol level of 55μg%, far exceeding the legal limit of 9μg%. He was arrested but later released pending further investigation.

“The car skidded at the roundabout and crashed,” Kontogiorgou’s aunt told Greek media. “Irini died instantly from a head injury, as the coroner confirmed. The car was destroyed.”

Devastated Family and Community

Kontogiorgou’s mother is reportedly in deep shock, struggling to come to terms with the loss of her only child. “She hasn’t realized her child is gone,” said the victim’s aunt, adding that the tragedy also deeply affected the university community in Cyprus.

A planned student celebration has been converted into a memorial event to honor Kontogiorgou’s memory.

Ongoing Investigation

The overloaded car was carrying students from different schools, and police are investigating reports that one person was riding in the trunk. They are also examining the events leading up to the crash and are expected to bring serious charges against the driver.

The accident left two others injured, one with a fractured elbow, while the other remains hospitalized for further evaluation.

Authorities have urged caution on the roads, especially in poor weather conditions, as the case highlights the risks of impaired driving and vehicle overloading.