Bhubaneswar, Oct 7: A 37-year-old man was allegedly shot dead following an altercation in Bantala village of Anugola district, in an incident that took place barely one kilometre from the local police station on Tuesday evening.

The deceased has been identified as Susanta Pradhan, alias Kalia, a resident of Bantala village. According to preliminary police investigation, the firing occurred around 7 pm near Nimba Chhak under Bantala police station limits.

Police said Susanta had an argument with another person from the same village, which allegedly escalated into a violent confrontation. During the altercation, he was shot in the chest and collapsed at the spot.

On being informed, Bantala police rushed to the scene and shifted the injured man to the Bantala Community Health Centre. However, doctors declared him dead on arrival.

The alleged assailant reportedly fled the spot after dropping the firearm. Police later seized the weapon, which is suspected to be a licensed gun belonging to Prakash Sahu, a retired Army personnel from Bantala village.

A detailed investigation has been launched to ascertain the circumstances leading to the shooting and establish the identity and motive of the accused. Senior police officials also visited the spot and reviewed the situation.

Police said the preliminary inquiry indicates that the firing may have followed a minor dispute. Officials have, however, withheld details about the suspected accused, stating that disclosure at this stage could hamper the ongoing investigation.

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