83-Year-Old Grandfather Held After ‘Accidental’ Shooting Kills Grandson
Pune : What was initially reported as an accidental rifle discharge at a hotel in Lonavala has turned into a murder investigation, with Pune Rural Police arresting an 83-year-old man for allegedly shooting his 33-year-old grandson following a long-standing dispute over property and financial matters. The incident occurred on October 5 at Hotel Motiram in the Bhushi area of Lonavala. The deceased was identified as Abhay Manik Marathe, son of former corporator Manik Marathe.
Post-mortem raises suspicion
According to police, the incident was initially portrayed as an accident. The rifle was allegedly being cleaned when it accidentally went off, resulting in Abhay suffering a gunshot injury. Based on the initial information, Lonavala City Police registered a case of accidental death. However, the circumstances surrounding the death came under scrutiny during the post-mortem examination. Doctors reportedly detected a gunshot wound to Abhay’s abdomen, prompting police to question the circumstances in which the firearm had allegedly discharged. The Local Crime Branch and Lonavala City Police subsequently began a detailed investigation, questioning hotel employees, staff members and others present in and around the premises.
Investigation changes course
During the probe, police allegedly found inconsistencies in the initial account of the shooting. Investigators subsequently came to the conclusion that the incident was not an accidental discharge but an alleged deliberate shooting. Police said Abhay and his grandfather Motiram Marathe had been involved in a prolonged dispute concerning property and financial matters. On October 5, the disagreement allegedly escalated into a confrontation, during which Motiram allegedly fired at Abhay with an old licensed rifle. Abhay suffered serious injuries and later succumbed while undergoing treatment.
Decades-old licensed rifles under scanner
The investigation also brought Motiram’s history of interest in hunting under scrutiny. Police said he had purchased two rifles during the 1970s and 1980s, and one of the licensed firearms was allegedly used in the shooting. Police are now examining the circumstances surrounding the firearm, its ownership, and how it was used at the time of the incident.
Five family members booked
While Motiram has been arrested as the main accused, Pune Rural Police have also registered cases against five other family members for their alleged role in attempting to conceal the incident and destroy evidence. The police investigation is continuing to establish the exact sequence of events, the role of each accused and the circumstances surrounding the alleged attempt to initially portray the shooting as an accident. Pune Rural Superintendent of Police Sandeep Gill provided details of the investigation and the action taken so far. The allegations are part of the ongoing police investigation, and the accused will have the opportunity to present their defence during the legal proceedings.
