Google Assists Indian Authorities in Probe Into Deaths of Three Men Following
Google Maps Directions

Google said on Tuesday that it was assisting Indian authorities investigating the deaths of three men who reportedly drove off an incomplete bridge while
following directions on Google Maps.

The group was en route to a wedding in Uttar Pradesh when their car plunged into the Ramganga River from the unfinished bridge early on Sunday. The driver had followed Google Maps, which led them to the route, the Hindustan Times newspaper reported on Tuesday, quoting police officials.

Police have questioned an unnamed official from the navigation app, as well as other personnel from the government’s public works department, according to the
Press Trust of India news agency.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to the families. We’re working closely with the authorities and providing our support to investigate the issue,” a Google
spokesperson told AFP in an emailed statement.

A local police officer stated that a portion of the bridge had been damaged during a
flood last year.

The accident occurred a year after two doctors were killed in the southern state of
Kerala when their car plunged into the Periyar River after following directions
from the app.