Indian-Origin Father and Daughter Shot Dead at Virginia Store
In a tragic incident that has shaken the Indian-American community, a 56-year-old man Pradeep Patel, and his 24-year-old daughter from Gujarat were shot dead at a departmental store in Accomack County, Virginia, where they worked. The incident occurred early Thursday, shortly after the store opened for the day.
The victims, Pradeep Patel and his daughter Urmi, hailed from Mehsana district in Gujarat. They had moved to the United States six years ago and were employed at a convenience store owned by a relative, Paresh Patel.
A Routine Morning Turns Fatal
According to initial reports, the accused — 44-year-old George Frazier Devon Wharton — entered the store on Thursday morning and asked why it had been closed during the night. An argument allegedly ensued, following which he opened fire.
Pradeep Patel died at the scene, while Urmi was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries. The local police have arrested Wharton and charged him with first-degree murder, along with other serious felony and firearm-related offences.
Community in Shock, Family Devastated
Paresh Patel, the store owner and a relative of the victims, told WAVY TV in Virginia that the loss was unimaginable. “My cousin’s wife and her father were working this morning. Some guy came here and just shot. I don’t know what to do,” he said.
Back in Gujarat, relatives of the victims were informed through local media and a viral video clip of the crime scene. Chandu Patel, Pradeep’s uncle, confirmed that the family had moved to the US around six to seven years ago in search of better opportunities.
Rising Concerns Over Safety of Indian-Origin Store Owners
This latest act of gun violence comes just months after another Indian-origin man, Mainank Patel, was killed during a robbery at his convenience store in North Carolina. The back-to-back incidents have led to growing concerns within the Indian-American community regarding their safety in retail establishments.
Pradeep Patel is survived by his wife Hansaben and two daughters—one living in Canada and the other in Ahmedabad. The family, once united in their pursuit of a better life overseas, now finds itself torn apart by a senseless act of violence.
Authorities continue to investigate the case, as community leaders call for stronger protections for immigrant workers and store owners across the United States.
Also see:
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EU Unveils €800 Billion Plan to Strengthen Defence
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