Man killed in accidental firing

A hunting expedition turned tragic after a 25-year-old man was killed after he accidently fired a gun inside a vehicle in which he was travelling with his friends.

The deceased has been identified as Dalip, alias Deepu, of Tissa village. According to police, Dalip along with four friends had set out for hunting in the Chaklu area around 8 pm on Saturday. They had carried a gun with them, but while travelling in a vehicle, it suddenly went off. The bullet struck Dalip in his legs, causing severe injuries.

Victim’s companions rushed him to Tissa hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. Police immediately reached the hospital, took possession of the body and detained the four youths for questioning. The detained have been identified as Roop Singh, Happy, son of Kewal; Sushil and Lovely — all residents of Tissa.

Chamba Additional Superintendent of Police Hitesh Lakhanpal said the police have seized the weapon and were examining other evidence.

He confirmed that no valid licence for the gun has been produced so far. Forensic experts have also been called in to assist in the investigation.

A case has been registered under relevant sections of Bharatiya Nayaya Sanhita and a thorough investigation is underway. “It is yet to be ascertained whether the firearm was in Dalip’s possession at the time of firing or handled by one of his companions,” he said.

Police sources revealed that preliminary inquiry suggests the gun belonged to Dalip, though further verification is in progress. Officials are gathering all possible evidence to determine the exact circumstances of the firing.