Colonel Dies in Southern Iraq Traffic Accident After Hitting Animal Herd

MAYSAN, Iraq — A colonel-ranked officer was killed in a traffic accident in Maysan Province on Tuesday evening. A security source said the crash occurred in the Tibbr area southwest of Maysan city, when a herd of animals suddenly crossed the road and the officer's vehicle struck one of the animals before overturning. The officer died at the scene. No other injuries or fatalities were reported in the incident. The officer's body was transferred to the forensic medicine department to complete legal procedures. Authorities have opened an investigation to determine whether any factors beyond the animal crossing contributed to the crash. The source said investigators will examine whether the accident involved circumstances beyond environmental causes. Officials called on drivers to remain vigilant against uncontrolled animal crossings on regional highways.