UPDATE: A 20-year-old man has tragically lost his life in a devastating crash on the A9 this morning. Local authorities have identified the victim as Keshav Sharma, who was pronounced dead at the scene after a collision involving a white Mercedes Sprinter van and a recovery lorry near Dalnaspidal, approximately 2.5 miles south of Dalwhinnie.
The crash occurred on the northbound carriageway around 11:50 AM on January 16, 2026. Emergency services rushed to the site, but despite their efforts, Keshav could not be saved. The 52-year-old driver of the van sustained minor injuries and was treated on site, with no other individuals reported injured.
Keshav, an Indian national, was working in Scotland to support his family back home, including two young sisters. Following this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist his family during this difficult time. The fundraiser highlights the immense burden they now face, as Keshav was their primary support.
The statement on the fundraiser reads:
“He came to the UK with dreams of building a better future and supporting his family back home. Tragically, his life was cut short in a road traffic accident.”
The GoFundMe aims to provide financial assistance to cover daily living costs and education for his sisters, emphasizing the family’s struggle. Keshav’s parents, both daily laborers, had taken on significant debt to send him abroad, hoping he would help lift them out of hardship.
A spokesperson for Police Scotland confirmed the details of the incident, stating,
“The road was closed until around 9 PM to allow for an investigation at the scene.”
This tragic accident raises urgent awareness about road safety and the human impact of such incidents. As the community mourns Keshav, the online fundraiser has already begun to gain traction, reflecting the heartfelt response of those touched by his story.
For those wishing to contribute, the GoFundMe page is available here. Keshav’s story resonates deeply, shining a light on the sacrifices made by individuals seeking better lives for their families.
