A tragic incident has unfolded in Anambra State where a 10-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed his father, Inspector Okolie Amechi, with the officer’s AK-47 rifle. The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the fatal event on Monday.
According to preliminary investigations, the boy, driven by curiosity and unaware that the rifle was loaded, pulled the trigger, striking his father in the back. The gunshot also wounded his sibling, who sustained an injury to the hand.
Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed that the officer’s service weapon had not been properly secured, allowing the child access to the firearm during an unguarded moment at the family’s home.
“Tragically, Inspector Amechi was pronounced dead by the attending doctor at the hospital. The second child is currently receiving medical care and is said to be in a stable condition,” Ikenga said.
He confirmed that the AK-47 rifle has been recovered by police operatives and that the officer’s body has been deposited in the mortuary pending the conclusion of investigations.
In a statement signed by SP Ikenga, the command extended its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family and assured them of the police’s full support through the mourning period.
The statement also noted that the command is currently reviewing internal protocols regarding the handling and storage of firearms by officers, particularly within private residences.
The police further conveyed wishes for a swift recovery to the injured child and underscored the critical need for stringent adherence to firearm safety regulations among personnel.