A nine-year-old boy was killed in a suspected attack by a wild animal in Bhavnagar district, adding to concerns over recent human-wildlife encounters in the region. The incident occurred in Bambhaniya village of Mahuva taluka on Tuesday evening. The victim, identified as Nitya Gondaliya, was found with severe injuries after an extensive search by his family and local residents.

According to police, Nitya left his home at around 5.30 pm and was heading towards agricultural fields near Mobhiyana village when the attack is believed to have occurred. A local police official said the incident likely took place at around 6.30 pm. When the child failed to return home, his family members and villagers began searching nearby fields and forested areas.

During the search, villagers reportedly saw two wild animals, including one that appeared to be a leopard cub. However, authorities have not yet confirmed whether the child was attacked by a leopard or a lion. The absence of CCTV cameras in the area has made it difficult for investigators to establish the exact sequence of events or immediately identify the animal involved.

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The child was eventually found with serious injuries and rushed for medical treatment, but doctors declared him dead on arrival. Police said he had suffered a torn left leg, multiple scratches across his body, injuries to his neck and elbow and severe wounds to his head. His father, Prakash Gondaliya, said the family searched across the village, nearby farms and forest areas before finding the boy.

Forest department officials have launched an investigation and are examining footprints, photographs and other evidence collected from the area to determine which animal was responsible for the attack. Officials are expected to study signs found near the location where the child was discovered as part of efforts to identify the species and assess whether a wild animal remains in the surrounding area.

A relative of the family claimed the incident was the third such wildlife encounter reported in the area in recent days and said animals resembling leopards had been seen nearby. The death has left Bambhaniya village in mourning and renewed concerns among residents about repeated encounters with wild animals. Authorities are continuing their investigation as local communities seek measures to prevent further attacks.

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