The case has evolved from what was initially described as an accidental shooting to a murder investigation in Lonavala, Maharashtra. An 83-year-old man, Motiram Marathe, is alleged to have shot his, Abhay Manik Marathe, during a dispute concerning property. The Pune Rural Police, collaborating with the Local Crime Branch and Lonavala City Police, uncovered discrepancies in the initial accident narrative that led to the grandfather’s arrest.

Authorities were called to the scene on October 5, where Abhay was discovered with a gunshot wound to his chest at Hotel Motiram in Bhushi village. Family members had initially claimed that the incident occurred while Abhay was cleaning the licensed 12-bore rifle owned by his grandfather, which accidentally discharged and struck him.

Investigation Reveals Inconsistencies

Upon further inquiry, law enforcement officials became skeptical about the circumstances surrounding the shooting. A senior police officer noted that the nature of Abhay’s injuries, alongside the positioning of the firearm, raised questions about the validity of the family’s account. The findings from Abhay’s post-mortem examination at Sassoon Hospital indicated that the gunshot wound did not reflect contact or near-contact injuries, which typically leave behind identifiable marks.

The police subsequently examined the crime scene, where bloodstains near the counter, the location where Abhay collapsed, and the angle of the firearm contradicted the assertion that the gun fired accidentally during cleaning. This prompted further questioning of witnesses, including a waiter at the restaurant who later provided details about a property dispute between Abhay and his grandfather.

According to police reports, a disagreement arose over Motiram’s intention to sell a portion of land—an action that Abhay opposed. This conflict allegedly escalated into a confrontation that culminated in Motiram shooting his grandson.

Family’s Alleged Cover-Up Attempt

The investigation has also unveiled efforts by family members to obscure the true nature of the incident and maintain the accident narrative. Reports suggest that the body was relocated from its original position, the rifle was cleaned and stored away, and CCTV cameras at the restaurant were removed. Witnesses indicated that restaurant staff, including the manager, were instructed not to report the shooting to authorities.

As part of the continuing investigation, a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed against five individuals for their alleged roles in concealing evidence and for misrepresenting the circumstances surrounding the fatal shooting. Charges include murder and evidence tampering, with police emphasising the need to clarify the exact involvement of each individual implicated in the case.

According to police statements, Motiram has reportedly acknowledged firing the shot but claims he acted in self-defence, alleging that Abhay had threatened him during their argument. Investigators are conducting a thorough examination of the evidence and witness testimonies, while also scrutinising attempts to manipulate the crime scene. Further legal measures against the accused individuals and those involved in the cover-up are anticipated as the investigation unfolds.

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