Indian woman, three relatives killed after domestic argument in US
Four people were killed in the early morning shooting, while three children were inside the home, witnessing the horrific incident
An Indian national was among four people killed in a tragic shooting incident linked to an alleged family dispute in the U.S. state of Georgia, the Indian mission in Atlanta confirmed on Friday. The incident has sent shockwaves through both the local community and Indian nationals living in the region.
The shooting took place in the early hours of Friday morning in Lawrenceville city, located in Gwinnett County, according to local media reports. Police were alerted to the incident at around 2.30 a.m. (local time) after receiving an emergency call from a residence in the 1000 block of Brook Ivy Court. When officers arrived at the scene, they discovered the bodies of four adults inside the home, all of whom had sustained fatal gunshot wounds.
What makes the tragedy even more harrowing is that three children were inside the house at the time the shooting began. Police officials said the children, fearing for their lives, hid inside a closet to protect themselves. One of the children showed remarkable presence of mind and managed to call 911, providing crucial information that enabled officers to reach the location within minutes. Authorities confirmed that the children were unharmed and were later taken into the care of a family member.
The Consulate General of India in Atlanta expressed deep sorrow over the incident and said it was extending all possible assistance to the affected family. was among the victims.
The victims have been identified by Gwinnett County police as Meemu Dogra, 43, the wife of the accused; Gourav Kumar, 33; Nidhi Chander, 37; and Harish Chander, 38. Authorities said all four victims were related and were present inside the residence when the shooting occurred.
The suspect, identified as Kumar, has been taken into custody and is facing multiple serious charges. According to police, he has been charged with four counts of aggravated assault, four counts of felony murder, four counts of malice murder, one count of cruelty to children Investigators are continuing to probe the circumstances that led to the shooting, though it is believed to have stemmed from a domestic dispute.
Local law enforcement officials said the case highlights the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the lasting trauma such incidents leave behind, especially for children. “This was an incredibly tragic situation,” a police official said, adding that the swift response of officers and the bravery shown by one of the children helped prevent further loss of life.
The Indian community in Georgia has expressed grief and disbelief over the incident, with several community members offering condolences and support to the surviving family members. Friends and relatives described the victims as close-knit and said the news has left them shaken.
As the investigation continues, authorities said they are focused on ensuring justice for the victims while providing support services for the children affected by the tragedy. The Indian mission has also assured that it remains in close contact with local authorities to assist with all necessary legal and humanitarian support.