A tragic shooting at a Virginia convenience store has claimed the lives of a 56-year-old Indian-origin man and his 24-year-old daughter. Authorities have arrested a suspect in connection with the attack, which took place in Accomack County on the morning of March 20.
The victims, identified as Pradipkumar Patel and his daughter, were working at the store on Lankford Highway when the shooting occurred. According to the Accomack County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded to an emergency call at 5:30 a.m. Upon arrival, officers discovered the male victim unresponsive with gunshot wounds. A further search led to the discovery of the female victim, who was severely injured. The man was pronounced dead at the scene, while his daughter was rushed to Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Suspect in Custody
Authorities confirmed the arrest of 44-year-old George Frazier Devon Wharton of Onancock on March 21. He is currently being held without bond at Accomack Jail. Sheriff W. Todd Wessells stated that Wharton has been charged with first-degree murder, attempted murder, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and additional offenses. Investigators have not yet disclosed a motive behind the attack.
Family and Community in Shock
The devastating incident has left the victims’ family and the Indian American community in mourning. Paresh Patel, the store owner and a relative of the victims, expressed his grief, saying, “My cousin’s wife and her father were working this morning when someone came in and shot them. I don’t know what to do,” he told local station WAVY-TV, as reported by PTI.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting as the community seeks answers and justice.