Tragedy struck in Awka, Anambra State, on Sunday night when a 10-year-old boy accidentally discharged his father’s service rifle, fatally shooting the officer and injuring his younger brother.

The victim, identified as Inspector Okolie Amechi, was on duty at Polaris Bank along Zik Avenue by Okeke Street when the incident occurred around 9:40 p.m. According to reports, the inspector was visited at his post by his three sons when the unfortunate accident happened.

The eldest son, Dominion Vincent, reportedly picked up his father’s loaded AK-47 rifle—unknowingly cocked and left without the safety engaged—and pulled the trigger while playing with it. The bullet struck Inspector Amechi from behind, fatally injuring him in the spine.

The same bullet also hit Dominion’s youngest brother, six-year-old Emmanuel Vincent, causing injuries to his back and right hand. Both victims were immediately rushed to Amaku Specialist Teaching Hospital, Awka, where the officer was pronounced dead on arrival. Emmanuel is currently receiving medical treatment and is responding positively.

The service weapon, identified as an AK-47 with Breach No. BA360691 and loaded with 30 rounds of 7.62 x 39mm ammunition, has been recovered and secured. The incident is being investigated by the Central Police Station (CPS) in Awka.

An internal report confirming the incident stated: “Regret to inform you that on 15/06/2026 at about 9:40 p.m., Inspector Okolie Amechi (AP/No. 262498), who was on duty at Polaris Bank, Zik Avenue by Okeke Street, Awka, was visited by his three sons: Dominion (10), Wisdom (8), and Emmanuel (6). His service rifle was accidentally discharged by Dominion, leading to the tragic outcome.”

Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the lapse in firearm safety, particularly how a loaded weapon was accessible to a child.