What was meant to be a joyous celebration turned into a scene of horror on Sunday, June 20, when gunfire erupted during a naming ceremony at Gbawe Barley in the Greater Accra Region.
The incident left one man dead and a woman critically injured, shaking the local community and raising urgent concerns about public safety at social gatherings.
Eyewitnesses recount that the tragic event unfolded following a heated altercation among some attendees.
Tensions reportedly escalated quickly before a yet-to-be-identified man drew a firearm and opened fire on the crowd.
According to Nii Oshipi, a local opinion leader who spoke to Nyansaponews, the assailant shot the male victim in the head at close range, killing him instantly.
A woman—who may have been an unintended target—was struck in the abdomen and collapsed at the scene.
She was rushed to the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, where she is currently receiving critical care.
Suspect at Large
The identity of the shooter remains unknown, and police say he fled the scene immediately after the incident.
A manhunt is currently underway to locate and apprehend the suspect.
Law enforcement officials are urging residents with any information to come forward to assist in the investigation.
“We are treating this as a very serious case,” said a police spokesperson.
“We’re gathering all available evidence and working closely with eyewitnesses to identify and capture the perpetrator.”
Community Leaders Respond
The Assembly Member for the Gbawe East Electoral Area, Benjamin Lartey, has condemned the attack and pledged full cooperation with security agencies to bring the offender to justice.
“This is not just a crime against individuals—it is an assault on our community’s peace.
“We will work hand in hand with the police to ensure that those responsible are held accountable,” Mr. Lartey said.
He also called for increased security presence in the area, especially during public events, to prevent similar tragedies.
Motive Unclear
While the motive behind the shooting remains uncertain, sources close to the event suggest that the dispute may have stemmed from a personal disagreement or unresolved tensions among guests.
Police are investigating whether the attack was premeditated or a spontaneous act of violence.
Growing Concerns Over Gun Violence
This incident adds to growing concerns about the rise in violent crimes, particularly involving firearms, in residential areas and at social gatherings across the Greater Accra Region.
Community members are calling for tighter regulation of firearms and stronger enforcement of public safety laws.
“It’s terrifying that someone could just show up at a naming ceremony and shoot people.
We need better policing and control over who has access to weapons,” a shaken resident said.
As investigations continue, the community of Gbawe remains in mourning—shocked by the sudden violence that disrupted a day meant for celebration and unity.
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