Bo tree collapses in Mihintale Rajamaha Viharaya killing devotee

By B.G.Chaturanga.  

A devotee on pilgrimage to Mihintale received serious injuries when he was pinned under a Bo tree that collapsed unexpectedly.  
Investigations revealed that the historic Ambasthala Bodhi in front of the Sela Chaithya in the upper compound of the Mihintale Rajamaha Viharaya fell owing to the gale force wind that prevailed when he was walking up the steps near the Bodhi to pay homage to the Mihintale Cheithiya. The victim Asanka Bandara Herath (45) was a businessman from Wariyapola area who was on pilgrimage to Mihintale with several others.  
Meanwhile, a nine-year-old girl had a narrow escape when the Bo tree split apart and fell. Those present said PC (72921) Nilantha, on duty at the Rajamaha Vihara ground, rushed to the scene, risking his life and saved the little girl.  
OIC Mihintale Police CI Chandrasiri Ranjith is conducting further investigations.