Udupi: Prominent businessman and former president of Mudarangadi gram panchayat David D’Souza, also known as David Dalia, was shot dead by unidentified assailants in Mudarangadi, Pillar village, on Friday afternoon.
The incident has sent shockwaves across the Shirva area, where D’Souza was a known figure. Police have launched an investigation to identify the attackers and establish the motive behind the shooting.
Assailants open fire outside church
According to preliminary information, the attack took place in front of St Francis Xavier Church in Mudarangadi, within the limits of Mudarangadi gram panchayat.
Two unidentified men reportedly arrived at the location on a motorcycle and opened fire at D’Souza. After the shooting, the assailants allegedly fled the scene immediately on the motorcycle.
The brazen nature of the attack has raised concern among local residents, particularly as it occurred in a public area during the afternoon.
People in the vicinity rushed to the spot after hearing about the shooting. D’Souza was critically injured in the attack and was taken towards a nearby hospital for emergency treatment.
However, doctors reportedly declared him dead while he was being taken to the hospital.
Police launch investigation
Following the incident, personnel from the Shirva and Padubidri police stations rushed to the scene and began collecting information about the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The police have started efforts to identify the two assailants and determine the route they took after fleeing the location.
The scene of crime officer (SOCO) team also visited the spot and examined the area for evidence that could help investigators reconstruct the attack.
A dog squad was deployed as part of the investigation, with personnel examining the crime scene for possible clues.
Police are expected to gather information from eyewitnesses and examine available evidence as they work to establish the sequence of events.
Motive yet to be established
The exact motive behind the killing has not yet been ascertained.
Investigators are looking into various aspects of D’Souza’s personal and professional background as part of the probe. Details about any possible dispute or previous threat, if established during the investigation, are expected to provide further clues about the reason for the attack.
At present, police have not publicly confirmed the identity of the attackers or attributed the shooting to any particular group or individual.
The investigation is continuing, and efforts are underway to trace the suspects.
Former gram panchayat president
D’Souza was a prominent figure in the local community and had previously served as president of Mudarangadi gram panchayat.
Apart from his public role, he was associated with business activities in the region. He was known for operating multiple ventures, including an earthmovers business.
His death has therefore caused considerable shock in the Shirva and surrounding areas, with local residents gathering near the scene following news of the shooting.
The attack has also brought renewed attention to security concerns in the region, particularly the use of motorcycles by unidentified assailants to carry out attacks and escape quickly.
Evidence being gathered from crime scene
Investigators are examining the location in detail to identify evidence that could lead to the accused.
The SOCO team and dog squad have already inspected the crime scene. Police are also expected to verify information from people who were present in the area at the time of the incident.
The movements of the attackers before and after the shooting will be an important part of the investigation. Police may also examine available surveillance footage from nearby establishments and roads to identify the motorcycle used by the suspects and track their escape route.
The recovery of forensic evidence and statements from witnesses could help investigators establish how the attack was carried out.
Investigation continues
Police officials from the concerned stations are continuing the investigation, while efforts are being made to track down the unidentified assailants.
The circumstances leading up to the shooting, the identity of the attackers and the motive behind the killing remain key questions for investigators.
Authorities have urged people with relevant information about the incident or the movements of suspicious persons in the area to assist the investigation.
The killing of David D’Souza has left the local community shocked, particularly given his prominence as a businessman and former gram panchayat president. With the attackers still at large, police are working to establish the motive and bring those responsible to justice.