10-Year-Old Accidentally Kills Police Inspector Father in Awka Home

A tragic incident unfolded in Awka, the Anambra State capital, on Sunday, as a 10-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed his father, Police Inspector Okolie Amechi, using the officer’s service AK-47 rifle.

According to sources, the bullet also struck the officer’s second son, Emmanuel, in the hand during the chaotic scene that occurred within the family’s residence.

The young boy was reportedly handling the loaded rifle assigned to his father when he unintentionally pulled the trigger. The bullet fatally hit Inspector Amechi in the back before grazing his other son.

The Anambra State Police Command has been plunged into mourning following the unfortunate event, which has also sparked concern over firearm safety and protocols within police households.

In a statement on Monday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident and expressed the Command’s grief.

“The Anambra State Police Command has expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident that led to the death of Police Inspector Okolie Amechi in Awka,” Ikenga said.

“The incident, which occurred on the evening of June 15, 2025, was allegedly caused by an accidental discharge from the Inspector’s AK-47 rifle, handled by his 10-year-old son. The boy, unaware of the state of the weapon, pulled the trigger, striking his father and brother.”

Inspector Amechi was rushed to a hospital where he was confirmed dead by the attending physician. His second son is said to be responding to treatment.

Police have since recovered the rifle, and the remains of the deceased officer have been deposited in the mortuary.

“The Command extends its condolences to the family and friends of the late Inspector and wishes the injured child a speedy recovery,” Ikenga stated, adding that further updates would be provided as the investigation unfolds.

This domestic tragedy comes on the heels of heightened security concerns in Anambra State. In August 2024, gunmen attacked a police checkpoint near the Nnobi Police Station in Idemili South LGA, killing an officer. That incident followed a similar ambush weeks earlier on Omata-Nnobi Road in Nnewi North, where another officer was gunned down, and an explosive device was used.

The Police Command is expected to review its internal safety protocols and weapon storage practices to prevent similar incidents in the future.

© The Punch