At least three members of a local jatra troupe were killed in an accident near Ostapur under Sadar police limits in Odisha's Kendrapara district on Monday.
The identity of the deceased is yet to be ascertained. Four more persons have also reportedly sustained injuries in the road mishap.
Those critically injured have reportedly been shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack.
As per reports, the mishap took place when the SUV hit a roadside tree after its driver lost control of the vehicle on the route. They were reportedly returning home after performing in a local drama programme.
"We received three women, who were brought dead. Three persons with critical head injuries have been referred to Cuttack. One person has been admitted here. He has sustained minor injuries and is stable," informed Debashis Sahoo, Medical Officer of Kendrapara District Headquarters Hospital.