An Indian woman and three of her relatives died after a shooting that authorities believe stemmed from a domestic dispute in the US state of Georgia. At the same time, three children were inside the house but escaped injury by hiding in a closet, police said.
Shooting Reported in Lawrenceville Near Atlanta
The incident happened early Friday morning at a home in Lawrenceville city, near Atlanta. Shortly after 2.30 am local time, police received a 911 call from a residence on Brook Ivy Court.
When officers reached the scene, they found four adults inside the house. Each of them had suffered fatal gunshot wounds.
Indian Consulate Confirms Victim, Extends Support
Soon after, the Indian Consulate in Atlanta confirmed that one of the victims was an Indian national. Officials also said police had arrested the suspected shooter.
Expressing deep sorrow, the Consulate General of India said it was offering full assistance to the affected family.
“We are deeply grieved by a tragic shooting incident linked to an alleged family dispute, in which an Indian national was among the victims. The alleged shooter has been arrested, and all possible assistance is being extended to the bereaved family," the mission said in a post on X.
Police Identify Suspect and Victims
Meanwhile, local media identified the suspect as Vijay Kumar, a 51-year-old resident of Atlanta. Gwinnett County police said the victims included Kumar’s wife, Meemu Dogra (43), along with three relatives — Gourav Kumar (33), Nidhi Chander (37), and Harish Chander (38).
Children Hide and Alert Emergency Services
During the shooting, three children were present inside the home. Fearing for their lives, the children hid inside a closet to stay safe.
Importantly, one of the children managed to call emergency services. As a result, police arrived within minutes. Authorities later confirmed that the children were not injured and were placed in the care of a family member.
Police File Serious Charges, Probe Continues
Following the arrest, police charged the suspect with several serious offences, including aggravated assault, felony murder, malice murder, and cruelty to children.
At the same time, investigators continue to examine the case. Officials said they are collecting evidence and working to establish the complete sequence of events.
