A tragic incident unfolded in Awka on June 15, 2025, when a 10-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed his father, Inspector Amaechi Okolie, with an AK-47 service rifle. The young boy also shot his brother in the hand during the incident.
According to a statement released by Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the boy, unaware that the weapon was loaded, reportedly pulled the trigger of the rifle assigned to his father. The bullet struck Inspector Okolie in the back and injured his second son.
The wounded officer was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead by the attending doctor. His second son is currently receiving medical treatment and is reported to be responding positively.
“The Anambra State Police Command has expressed sadness over the unfortunate incident,” said Ikenga. “The Command wishes the injured child a swift recovery and sends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the late Inspector.”
Police have recovered the rifle used in the incident, and the remains of Inspector Okolie have been deposited in the morgue. Authorities have yet to disclose further details on how the child accessed the firearm.
The incident has sparked renewed concerns about firearm safety in homes, particularly those of security personnel.
