Uninvited Village Headman Shoots and Kills Host at Child's Naming Ceremony in Uttar Pradesh

Police report that the tragic incident took place during the late hours of Thursday night.

Shahjahanpur (UP):

A fatal shooting occurred at a child's naming ceremony when a village headman allegedly opened fire after not receiving an invitation to the event, according to police statements released on Friday.

Authorities confirmed that the incident transpired late Thursday night.

Avneesh Kumar, aged 23, was hosting a celebratory feast for his son's naming ceremony in Mohanpur village when tragedy struck.

The village headman, identified as 48-year-old Sukhdev, who had not been invited to the celebration, arrived at the venue and reportedly began firing his weapon. Police sources indicate that two rounds were discharged.

During the shooting, one bullet struck Avneesh, as confirmed by Superintendent of Police (SP) Rajesh Dwivedi in a statement to PTI. The victim was immediately rushed to a hospital where medical professionals declared him dead upon arrival.

"In the chaos that followed, family members and guests at the ceremony apprehended the accused and subjected him to a severe beating. Sukhdev sustained serious injuries and has been admitted to the hospital, where his condition remains critical," the police officer stated.

The victim's body has been sent for post-mortem examination, and police are currently conducting a search for the weapon used in the deadly attack, SP Dwivedi added.