10-Year-Old Accidentally Kills Police Inspector Father with AK-47 in Awka
A tragic accident in Awka, Anambra State, saw a 10-year-old boy fatally shoot his father, Inspector Okolie Amechi, with an AK-47 rifle. His brother was also injured.
Enet
Awka, Nigeria — A heartbreaking tragedy has rocked the city of Awka, Anambra State, where a 10-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed his father, Police Inspector Okolie Amechi, with an AK-47 rifle. The officer’s second son was also injured during the incident.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by SP Tochukwu Ikenga, spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, the incident occurred on June 15, 2025, inside the family’s home.
“The Anambra State Police Command is shocked by this tragic event that led to Police Inspector Amechi’s death in Awka,” Ikenga stated.
Chaos and Loss
Reports indicate that the young boy was handling the officer’s service rifle when he unknowingly pulled the trigger, firing a bullet that struck Inspector Amechi in the back. In the same chaotic moment, his younger brother was hit in the hand.
Inspector Amechi was rushed to a hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. The injured son is currently receiving medical treatment and is reported to be responding well.
The police confirmed that the AK-47 rifle has been recovered, and Inspector Amechi’s body has been deposited in the morgue.
Command Reaction and Condolences
SP Ikenga expressed the police command’s deep sorrow and sympathy to the family, adding that further updates will be shared as investigations continue.
“The incident was caused by an accidental discharge by the boy, who did not know the rifle's condition,” he said. “He pulled the trigger and hit his father and brother.”
The command also wished the injured child a speedy recovery and extended condolences to the late officer’s family and friends.
Broader Concerns Over Firearm Safety
The incident raises renewed concerns about gun safety and firearm storage, particularly within households of security personnel. Authorities are expected to review internal protocols to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
As the community mourns the untimely loss of Inspector Amechi, calls for stricter control over access to service weapons—especially around children—are growing louder.
