Four Members of Indian Family Killed in Georgia Shooting; Children Escape Unharmed

Lawrenceville, Georgia: An Indian woman and three of her relatives were shot dead in an apparent domestic dispute in the US state of Georgia, authorities said, in a tragic incident that left a local community in shock.

Three children who were present during the attack survived by hiding in a closet, police confirmed.

The shooting occurred early Friday morning at a residence on Brook Ivy Court in Lawrenceville, near Atlanta. Gwinnett County police said they received a 911 call at around 2.30 am local time, prompting officers to rush to the scene, where four adults were found dead inside the house with fatal gunshot wounds.

The Consulate General of India in Atlanta confirmed that an Indian national was among the victims and said the suspected shooter had been arrested. Expressing deep condolences, the Consulate said it was extending all possible assistance to the bereaved family.

“We are deeply grieved by a tragic shooting incident linked to an alleged family dispute, in which an Indian national was among the victims. The alleged shooter has been arrested, and all possible assistance is being extended to the bereaved family,” the mission said in a post on X.

Local media identified the suspect as Vijay Kumar, 51, of Atlanta. Police said the victims were Kumar’s wife Meemu Dogra (43), along with Gourav Kumar (33), Nidhi Chander (37), and Harish Chander (38).

Investigators revealed that three children were inside the house when the shooting began. The children reportedly hid in a closet to protect themselves, and one of them managed to call emergency services, enabling police to reach the scene within minutes. The children were not injured and were later placed in the care of a family member.

The suspect has been charged with multiple serious offences, including malice murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, and cruelty to children. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as the case progresses.

The incident has once again highlighted concerns over domestic violence and gun-related crimes, even as diplomatic officials work to support the affected family during this period of grief.