A tragic incident in Accomack County, Virginia, claimed the lives of a father and daughter originally from Gujarat, India. The victims, 56-year-old Pradeep Ratilal Patel and his 26-year-old daughter Urvi, were shot just minutes after opening their liquor store on March 20.
According to the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office, the suspect, 44-year-old George Frazier Devon Wharton, has been arrested and is currently in custody without bail. Authorities are still investigating the motive behind the shooting.
A Sudden, Shocking Attack
Pradeep and Urvi had just started their day at the store when the gunman walked in and opened fire. Pradeep was shot twice in the chest and died on the spot. Urvi, who sustained a critical head injury, was placed on life support at the hospital but did not survive.
Pradeep’s younger brother, Ashok, shared that his brother had moved to the U.S. six years ago with his wife Hansa and daughter Urvi. He had been working at the liquor store to support his family. The attack happened just after the store opened at 5:30 AM. The shooter reportedly complained about the store being closed at night, claiming he had been waiting to buy alcohol. Moments later, he fired at Pradeep and Urvi.
Family in Mourning
The shocking news has deeply affected the Indian and Gujarati communities in the U.S. and back home in India. Pradeep’s relatives, including his nephew from Kanoda and his daughter and son-in-law from Ahmedabad, have traveled to the U.S. following the tragedy. Another daughter, who lives in Canada, also rushed to be with the family.
Pradeep, who previously ran an electronics store in Mehsana, had built a new life in America. Now, his family is left grieving and seeking justice for the devastating loss.
Police are continuing their investigation into the case.
