A key suspect in the murder of prominent industrialist Gopal Khemka was shot dead by Bihar Police during a pre-dawn encounter in Patna’s Damaria Ghat area on Tuesday, authorities confirmed.

The suspect, identified as Vikas alias Raja, 29, was allegedly involved in supplying the weapon used to kill Khemka and had a history of multiple criminal cases, including illegal arms trading. Acting on a tip-off, a joint team of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) and Special Task Force (STF) arrived at Damaria Ghat around 2:25 am to apprehend him, a senior police official said.

“Vikas attempted to flee and opened fire on the police. In retaliatory firing, he was fatally wounded,” the official stated, adding that no officers were injured. A pistol, one spent cartridge, and one live cartridge were recovered from the scene.

Also Read: Bihar Businessman Gopal Khemka Gunned Down in Patna, Nitish Kumar Orders Urgent Probe Amid Law and Order Outcry

Khemka, a well-known businessman and owner of Magadh Hospital, was gunned down outside his residence in Patna’s Gandhi Maidan area on July 4, 2025, by a bike-borne assailant. The police have arrested the alleged shooter, Umesh Rai, and detained another suspect believed to have orchestrated the contract killing, reportedly worth ₹3.3 lakh.

The investigation continues, with police suspecting business rivalry as a possible motive. This marks a tragic repeat for the Khemka family, whose son, Gunjan, was murdered in Hajipur seven years ago.

Also Read: Bihar Businessman Gopal Khemka Gunned Down in Patna, Nitish Kumar Orders Urgent Probe Amid Law and Order Outcry