By: Matters India Reporter

Alappuzha: A 40-year-old Catholic priest belonging to the Latin Catholic diocese of Alleppey in Kerala died in a road accident in the early hours of  June 7.

Fr Francis Raju Kakkari was on his way to celebrate Mass in Cherthala when his motor bike collided with a tipper lorry near Mararikulam. He suffered serious injuries and died on the way to hospital.

A 20-year-old pillion rider narrowly escaped with minor injuries.

The priest served as the vicar at Vettackal  parish in Cherthala. He was also a gifted singer .

Father Francis’ body has been kept at Assissi hospital in Arthunthankal after a post-mortem examination. His funeral will be held at 3pm on June 8 at his native parish of Thaikkal near Cherthala.