A 15-year-old Class 10 student and trained rifle shooter in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, died by suicide at his residence using a firearm, police confirmed. The incident occurred recently, with the Pudur Police Station leading the investigation. No foul play is suspected based on initial evidence.
Authorities suspect the boy used a gun, possibly his sporting rifle, though confirmation awaits forensic analysis. "The weapon has been secured and sent to the armoury," a senior Pudur Police officer told NDTV. "Ongoing probes include ballistic tests, scene reconstruction, and fingerprint analysis." Additional steps involve tracing the firearm's license history under the Arms Act, 1959, to verify if it complied with storage rules for sports equipment.
The victim's body underwent post-mortem at a government facility to determine exact cause, timing, and details. Forensic teams are examining the firearm's registration, origin, and match to the wound. Initial findings rule out external involvement, pointing to self-inflicted injury. Toxicology reports will screen for substances, and DNA evidence from the scene is being processed at the state forensic lab, with results due in 7-10 days.
Also Read: Hyderabad Mother Kills Twin Toddlers, Jumps to Death Amid Family Strife
Background checks reveal the student trained in rifle shooting for two years, competing in junior events under National Rifle Association guidelines. He used licensed air rifles and small-bore weapons, stored per sports protocols. Coaches noted his skill but recent dip in participation, including absences from three regional meets in the past six months. School records show average grades dropping from 75% to 55% in midterms, prompting teacher concerns.
Police reports indicate declining academic interest, with potential links to stress. Classmates reported withdrawal and missed classes ahead of board exams. No suicide note found, but digital devices are under scrutiny for clues like messages, search history, or social media activity indicating distress. Cyber forensics experts are analyzing browser data for patterns related to mental health queries or online forums.
Parents, private sector employees (IT and retail), were away at work. They discovered the body and alerted authorities. Family interviews show no prior mental health interventions or domestic disputes. Neighbors described a quiet household, but local welfare officers are now assessing extended family support needs.
Also Read: Ukrainian Crypto Investor Dies Amid $19 Billion Market Crash