By Accidental Patricide in Awka
10-year-old boy shoots police officer father dead
Summary
- Police inspector fatally shot by his 10-year-old son using loaded AK-47 rifle
- Incident occurred during family visit while officer was on duty at Polaris Bank
- Public reacts with shock, raising questions about firearm safety and negligence
A tragic incident unfolded on the evening of June 15, 2025, in Awka, Anambra State, as a 10-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed his father, Inspector Okolie Amechi, with the officer’s loaded AK-47 rifle.
The heartbreaking event took place at Polaris Bank along Zik Avenue, where the officer was stationed and visited by his three sons—Dominion (10), Wisdom (8), and Emmanuel (6).
According to police reports, Dominion Vincent, unaware that the weapon was loaded and cocked with the safety off, accidentally pulled the trigger, fatally striking his father in the spine. The bullet also wounded his younger brother, Emmanuel, who sustained injuries to his back and right hand.
Inspector Amechi was rushed to Amaku Specialist Teaching Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Emmanuel is currently receiving medical treatment and is said to be responding well.
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident through spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga, describing it as a case of accidental discharge. The officer’s rifle has been recovered, and the case has been transferred to the Central Police Station in Awka for thorough investigation.
Amechi’s remains have been deposited in a morgue, and the police extended condolences to his family, expressing hopes for Emmanuel’s swift recovery.
While some reports initially suggested the incident occurred at Amechi’s residence, most, including a police wireless message cited by SaharaReporters, confirm it happened at the bank.
The incident has triggered widespread shock and outrage online, with many questioning the officer’s judgment in leaving a loaded firearm within reach of his children. Others have pointed to systemic concerns over workplace discipline and firearm safety within Nigeria’s security agencies.
