Tricity
Mohali: Youth dies as pistol goes off accidentally; friend held
A youth died after his licensed .45‑bore pistol discharged accidentally in Mohali’s Shivalik City, and police detained his friend Harpal.
A young man from Kharar died on Monday after his licensed .45‑bore pistol discharged unintentionally inside a flat in Mittal Paradise, Shivalik City, Mohali. Police said Gurpreet had arrived in Kharar earlier that day and, together with Harpal and a few companions, went to the friend’s residence. Around 4 p.m., Gurpreet unloaded his weapon, and the shot went off, resulting in his death.
The incident unfolded in a residential building that hosts several families, and neighbours said the flat belonged to a close associate of the deceased. After the discharge, Harpal was taken into custody by local police, who have opened a case to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the accidental firing.
Authorities have not released further details about the weapon’s loading status or the sequence of actions that led to the discharge. A senior officer confirmed that the pistol was legally possessed, as it was licensed, and that the investigation is ongoing. No statements have been made regarding charges at this stage.
Incidents involving licensed firearms, while uncommon, remind residents of the responsibility that accompanies gun ownership. The police department has urged the public to handle weapons with care and to store them securely when not in use. The case will be examined under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, and the police are expected to file a formal report once the inquiry is complete.
Family members and friends are reportedly grappling with the loss, and the community is awaiting further updates from the investigation. The Mohali police have reiterated that they are treating the matter seriously and will ensure that all aspects of the incident are examined.
The death underscores the importance of safe firearm practices, especially in densely populated urban areas. As the investigation proceeds, the focus remains on understanding how the accidental discharge occurred and what steps can be taken to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Source: Hindustan Times
