A heartbreaking incident has occurred in Umuoba-Uratta, Owerri North Local Government Area of Imo State, where a 20-month-old child, Emmanuel Eleweke, was killed by a stray bullet.
The tragic event took place around 10 pm on Monday, leaving the family and community in shock.
*Mysterious circumstances*
The child’s mother, Mrs. Kelechi Eleweke, recounted the incident, saying, “I was with him on my bed after dinner and night prayer… Suddenly, I heard a huge sound and felt a splash of sand-like objects on my body.
“The next thing I saw was blood all over his body and the bed.”
She quickly carried her son outside for help, but the response from a nearby private hospital was inadequate.
Denied medical help
Mrs. Eleweke alleged that the hospital demanded a police report before treating her child, saying, “The man that appeared like a doctor demanded for a police report before treating my child.”
This delay allegedly worsened the situation, and the child was later pronounced dead on arrival at the Federal Medical Center (FMC), Owerri.
The child’s father, Okechukwu Eleweke, shared his experience, stating, “For the period we were in transit, I can say the boy was alive until we got to FMC gate.
But getting into the emergency paediatric ward, the doctor on duty quickly examined him and pronounced him dead on arrival.”
The family is still trying to come to terms with the mysterious circumstances surrounding their son’s death.
Community’s reaction
The community is shaken by the incident, with many calling for a thorough investigation.
A former Youth Leader, Mr. Chika Ibeawuchi, expressed grief, saying, “This is a tragedy. It has never happened before in this community.”
He appealed to the police to conduct a diligent investigation to uncover the truth behind the stray bullet.
Investigation underway
Attempts to reach Imo State Police Spokesman DSP Henry Okoye for comment were unsuccessful, as he did not answer calls or respond to text messages.
However, the police have taken steps to investigate the incident, with a senior officer confirming that the matter is being handled.
The authorities are working to determine the origin of the stray bullet and the circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
As the community mourns the loss of the young life, there is a growing demand for justice and answers.
The incident has raised concerns about safety and the need for increased vigilance in the area.
