18-YEAR-OLD SHOT DEAD IN MODEL TOWN: BALLISTIC EVIDENCE RECOVERED AS FORENSIC PROBE BEGINS
An 18-year-old youth was shot dead in the early hours in North-West Delhi’s Model Town–Azadpur stretch in a targeted attack that has become a significant case for ballistic and crime-scene forensics. The victim, identified as Ishant, a resident of Jahangirpuri, was returning home from a wedding when he was intercepted by bike-borne assailants who opened fire at close range.
Police received a PCR call at around 2:28 AM regarding an injured person lying near Azadpur. He was rushed to Babu Jagjivan Ram Memorial Hospital where doctors declared him brought dead. A case of murder has been registered and multiple teams have been deployed to identify and apprehend the attackers.
Crime Scene Findings: Cartridge Evidence Becomes Key
During the inspection of the scene, investigators recovered multiple empty cartridges, confirming that several rounds were fired at the victim. A crime team along with forensic experts processed the spot and collected physical and trace evidence.
The recovery of ballistic material will help forensic experts determine:
- The type and calibre of weapon used
- Whether one or multiple firearms were involved
- The direction and distance of firing
- Possible linkage with previous firearm cases
Post-Mortem Examination: Establishing Medical-Legal Facts
The body has been sent for medico-legal autopsy to scientifically establish the cause and manner of death. The post-mortem examination will help in:
- Determining the exact cause of death
- Identifying entry and exit wounds
- Estimating the range of fire
- Recovering projectiles for ballistic comparison
- Reconstructing the trajectory of the bullet
Digital & Technical Forensics in Progress
Investigators are relying on technical evidence to track the accused and reconstruct the sequence of events. This includes:
- CCTV footage analysis from the surrounding area
- Call Detail Record (CDR) examination
- Movement pattern reconstruction
- Identification of the escape route used by the assailants
Victimology & Motive Reconstruction
Preliminary inquiry suggests a possible local rivalry as the motive behind the murder. The victim’s background and previous associations are being analysed to identify behavioural risk factors, interpersonal conflicts and potential gang linkages.
From a forensic criminology perspective, victimology plays a crucial role in understanding why a particular individual was targeted and whether the attack was pre-planned or retaliatory.
Forensic Significance of the Case
This case highlights the integrated role of modern forensic science in urban firearm homicides:
- Ballistics for firearm identification and shooter linkage
- Medico-legal autopsy for scientific cause of death
- Crime scene reconstruction for event sequencing
- Digital forensics for tracking suspects
- Forensic intelligence for linking organised crime networks
Investigation Status
- Suspects have been identified through local intelligence
- Police teams are conducting continuous raids
- Technical surveillance is underway
- Forensic reports are awaited
Forensic Expert’s Take
Timely recovery of cartridge cases and proper crime scene processing can decisively influence the outcome of firearm homicide investigations. If the recovered cartridges match a previously used weapon, the case may expand into a larger organised crime framework, strengthening both investigative and prosecutorial strategies.
