Woman Defying Saudi Drive Ban Dies in Accident

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) — A Saudi police official says a young woman in her twenties defying a driving ban in the capital died along with three female friends when her car overturned.

Maj. Fawaz al-Mouman said Sunday that the woman was driving her four wheel drive vehicle carrying 10 of her female friends on Saturday night in an open area often used by young men in car races.

The vehicle overturned and killed four of passengers including the driver, while the remaining six others were taken to a nearby hospital in northeastern Riyadh to treat their injuries.

Saudi Arabia follows a strict interpretation of Islam. Sexes are segregated in schools and public places. Women are not allowed to drive or vote.