Woman killed after son accidentally fires illegal pistol

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By Sagaya Fernando | February 11, 2026

New Delhi, INDIA: A 37-year-old woman was killed after her teenage son accidentally discharged an illegal firearm inside their home in southeast Delhi’s Jungpura area late Monday February 9 night, police said.

The victim, identified as Sumati, was brought dead to Moolchand Hospital with a gunshot wound to her face. Police received a PCR call regarding the incident at around 10.39 pm, following which an investigation was initiated.

Preliminary inquiries revealed that the incident took place inside the family’s house in the JJ cluster of Pant Nagar, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Hazrat Nizamuddin police station. Sumati’s 18-year-old son, Tarun, has been identified as the accused and has been arrested.

According to police officials, Tarun had allegedly procured an unlicensed country-made pistol from an unidentified individual in the Ashram area earlier in the day. Later in the evening, while he was showing the weapon to his mother, it accidentally discharged. The bullet struck Sumati in the face, causing fatal injuries.

“There was no indication of any family dispute. Prima facie, it appears to be a case of reckless handling of an illegal firearm,” a senior police officer said.

After the incident, Tarun allegedly panicked and fled the spot. He was later traced and apprehended following a brief search operation. During interrogation, he led police to a nearby drain where he had disposed of the weapon. The firearm was subsequently recovered.

A forensic team was called to the scene to collect evidence and examine vital clues.

Sumati worked as a domestic help in nearby households and was the primary breadwinner of her family. Her husband, Chotu, is a daily-wage gardener. The couple is survived by three children, including an 11-year-old daughter.

Neighbours described Sumati as a hardworking and dedicated mother. “She worked tirelessly for her family. It is heartbreaking that she lost her life in such a tragic manner,” a local resident said.

An FIR has been registered under Section 105 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and relevant provisions of the Arms Act, including Sections 25, 27, and 54. Further investigation is underway.

Police said efforts are also being made to identify and arrest the person who allegedly supplied the illegal firearm. Officials added that tracing the source of the weapon remains a priority, highlighting concerns over the easy availability of illegal arms.