Amethi highway shooting: 75-year-old Hiralal Dwivedi shot dead, probe launched
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
A 75-year-old man was shot dead by unidentified assailants near a National Highway in Lodhianwa village under the Jagdishpur Kotwali area of Amethi district, Uttar Pradesh, on the morning of 8 June. The victim, identified as Hiralal Dwivedi, was killed while stepping out of his home for routine work, triggering fear and tension among local residents.
How the Attack Unfolded
According to reports, Hiralal Dwivedi had gone out early in the morning when an unidentified person allegedly opened fire on him near the highway stretch. Locals who heard the gunshots rushed to the spot and found the elderly man critically injured on the ground. He was immediately shifted to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared him dead on arrival.
What Police Found at the Scene
Police teams arrived promptly after being informed and cordoned off the area. The body was taken into custody and sent for post-mortem examination. Forensic teams are currently examining the crime scene, collecting evidence including shell casings and other material clues.
Amethi Circle Officer Atul Kumar Singh said, 'On June 8, Jitendra Kumar Dwivedi, a resident of Ludhiyawa village under Jagdishpur Police Station in Amethi district, was informed that his uncle, Hiralal Dwivedi, had gone out in the morning to attend to nature's call when an unidentified person allegedly shot and killed him. Upon receiving the information, the Jagdishpur Police immediately reached the spot, took custody of the body, and sent it for post-mortem examination.'
Angles Under Investigation
Officials said multiple angles are being examined, including personal enmity and local disputes. No arrests have been made so far. Security has been stepped up in the area as senior officers have assured strict action once the accused are identified.
Community Reaction and Next Steps
Residents expressed fear and anger following the killing, demanding swift action against those responsible. This comes amid broader concerns about law and order in rural Uttar Pradesh, where targeted shootings of elderly individuals have periodically stoked community unrest. Efforts to identify and trace the unidentified assailants are ongoing, and further details are awaited as the investigation progresses.