Dhenkanal, Jan 30: An elephant was killed and another injured after a speeding truck hit the wild animals on National Highway 55 in Dhenkanal district late on Wednesday night.

The mishap took place when an elephant herd was crossing the high way near Jeevan Khol area under Motunga police limits.

While an elephant calf died on the spot being crushed under the wheels of the vehicle, another pachyderm was critically injured. The injured elephant has ventured into the nearby forest.  

The truck driver fled from the spot soon after the accident.

Forest officials rushed to the spot being informed about the incident and launched probe.