TVM air gun incident: Accomplice was present in car; Shini's family reeling in shock

Thiruvananthapuram: The capital city of Kerala continues to grapple with the aftermath of a disturbing shooting incident at the home of a young woman on Sunday morning. Police, investigating the case, now reveal that the perpetrator appeared to have premeditated the attack, possessing good knowledge of Shini's residence.

The police suspect that thorough surveillance was conducted before the attack, which suggests a calculated plan. They are also exploring the possibility of an accomplice who may have been present in the vehicle during the incident.

The narrow access road leading to Shini's house forced the assailant to park their vehicle on the main road and walk approximately 200 metres. Posing as a courier agent, she had an envelope and paperwork for signing with her, taking advantage of Shini's family's routine of receiving  courier packages.

When Shini's father-in-law approached, the assailant requested Shini’s signature before unexpectedly drawing an air pistol concealed in her jeans pocket and firing shots. 

After firing at Shini, the assailant fled the scene, leaving behind a vehicle with fake number plates registered under a different name in Aryanad. The car, equipped with an L board, was likely used to mislead authorities.

The delayed response of family members, still reeling from shock and anger, also complicated the pursuit of the assailant. As the investigation progresses, Shini's family remains uncertain about the identity of the attacker.

Concerned family

Shini’s neighbour Vijayan said he learned about the incident upon hearing screams from the house in the morning. Locals are shocked that such an incident occurred in broad daylight without provocation in the typically tranquil Chembakassery Residence Association area.

Shini has been residing here with her husband's family for a long time now. Residents mentioned that this was the first such attack in the area. Shini’s father-in-law Sankaran Nair states the motive of the assailant remains unclear. The incident occurred at 8:30 in the morning when the area was quiet. Following the incident, Shini was immediately taken to a nearby private hospital.

Shini's house is situated 200 metres from the road. The CCTV footage here did not clearly capture the assailant's face.