A tragic incident unfolded in Awka, Anambra State, on June 15, 2025, as a 10-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed his father, Inspector Amaechi Okolie, with an AK-47 rifle assigned to the officer. The boy also unintentionally shot his younger brother, who is currently receiving medical treatment and is reportedly responding well.
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the child, unaware that the weapon was loaded, discharged the firearm, fatally striking his father in the back and injuring his sibling in the hand.
Inspector Okolie was rushed to the hospital but was pronounced dead by the attending physician. His second son, who survived the incident, remains hospitalized.
“The Anambra State Police Command has expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident that resulted in the death of Police Inspector Okolie Amaechi,” the statement read. “Regrettably, Inspector Amaechi was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty at the hospital, while the second victim was said to be responding to treatment.”
The AK-47 rifle used in the shooting has been recovered, and the remains of Inspector Okolie have been deposited in the morgue.
The Command extended its condolences to the bereaved family and pledged support during this period of mourning, while also wishing the injured child a full recovery.
