Wedding Celebrations Turn Fatal in Lucknow as Stray Bullet Kills Guest

A wedding celebration in Lucknow’s Gomtinagar locality turned tragic in the early hours of Saturday when a 50-year-old guest died after being struck by a bullet allegedly fired during celebratory gunfire a practice that remains illegal but persists at social gatherings.

The incident took place around 1:30 am in Virat Khand-1 under the Gomtinagar police station limits. The victim, Sunil Yadav , a resident of Chandganj, had attended a relative’s wedding when shots were reportedly fired as part of the festivities. He suffered critical injuries and was rushed by family members to a private hospital, where he later succumbed during treatment.

During the preliminary investigation, police identified Shashwat Singh , another attendee at the ceremony, as the suspected shooter. He allegedly fled immediately after the firing. Taking serious note of the incident, the Deputy Commissioner of Police (East) constituted two special teams to track him down. Raiding teams have been deployed to possible hideouts as part of the manhunt.

Officials said a written complaint from the deceased’s family had not been received at the time of reporting. An FIR will be registered under relevant sections once a complaint is filed, and further legal proceedings will follow. The body has been sent for post-mortem examination , after which additional action will be taken based on the findings.

Some relatives reportedly questioned whether more than one person was involved and sought a thorough probe into the circumstances surrounding the firing. Eyewitnesses described panic at the venue after gunshots were heard, with guests scrambling to understand what had happened.

Celebratory firing the discharge of firearms during weddings, festivals, and processions is prohibited under law and can attract charges including negligence, Arms Act violations, and culpable homicide if injuries or death occur. Police officials warn that bullets fired into the air can descend unpredictably and cause fatal injuries, even at a distance from the firing point.

Despite repeated advisories and legal action in past cases, such incidents continue to be reported across parts of North India, often linked to displays of status or tradition. Authorities have reiterated that strict enforcement, cancellation of firearm licences, and criminal prosecution will be pursued against offenders, while also urging event organisers and families to prevent the use of weapons at celebrations.

The latest tragedy has once again highlighted the deadly consequences of reckless celebratory gunfire and renewed calls for stronger public awareness and accountability to prevent avoidable loss of life.