Poor Vendor from Lahore Killed in Indian Drone Crash Near Rawalpindi Stadium

 

Tragedy Strikes During PSL Match Festivities

RAWALPINDI — A tragic incident occurred on May 8, 2025, when an Indian drone crashed near Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, killing a young vendor from Lahore and injuring two others. The drone hit a busy food street area just as a Pakistan Super League (PSL) match was concluding.

Victim Identified as 22-Year-Old Haider Ali

He was identified as 23 Haider Ali, a resident of Amar Sandhu area of ​​Lahore. Haider, along with his cousins ​​Tauqeer Abbas and Faisal Virk, came forward to sell dry fruits during a cricket tournament.

All three cousins were injured in the blast and rushed to Holy Family Hospital. Haider Ali unfortunately died from his injuries four hours later. His two cousins are in stable condition and recovering.

Panic and Destruction in the Area

Eyewitnesses reported the explosion, followed by chaos. People ran for safety, others tried to help the injured. The blast damaged Pakistani buildings, shattered windows and spread fear among shopkeepers and visitors.

A commercial vendor said the noise was so loud that we thought it was a bomb. "We saw the explosion, broken glass and people screaming everywhere."

Second Drone Crashes in Westridge Area

In a separate but likely related event, another drone believed to be of Indian origin crashed into a building in Rawalpindi’s Westridge area. While there were no injuries, the crash caused property damage and raised more questions about Pakistan’s airspace security.

Authorities Launch Investigation

Police, rescue teams, and the bomb disposal squad quickly reached both crash sites. You sealed the entire place after collecting evidence. Now we are investigating the origin of the drone and the purpose of its flight.

While responsible statements are yet to confirm the motives behind the drones, initial reports suggest they were used for surveillance or other cross-border administration.

Public Concerns Over Airspace Violations

The back-to-back drone crashes have triggered serious concerns about airspace security, especially near high-profile events like the PSL. Citizens and lawmakers are demanding stronger air defense systems and quicker response measures to protect civilian lives.

Haider Ali’s Death Sparks Nationwide Sympathy

Haider Ali’s death has deeply saddened the nation. A young man who came in search of a better future, his life cut short in a single moment. It highlights how ordinary people can be the biggest victims of geopolitical conflicts.

Their families are advocating for justice and demanding strict action from the government to prevent such incidents from happening again.