An Indian woman and three of her relatives were shot dead in an apparent domestic dispute in the US state of Georgia, while three children hid in a closet to escape the violence, authorities said.

The shooting occurred early Friday at a residence in Lawrenceville city, near Atlanta. The Indian Consulate in Atlanta confirmed that an Indian national was among the victims and said the suspected shooter had been arrested.

Expressing condolences, the Consulate General of India said it was extending all possible assistance to the bereaved family.

“We are deeply grieved by a tragic shooting incident linked to an alleged family dispute, in which an Indian national was among the victims. The alleged shooter has been arrested, and all possible assistance is being extended to the bereaved family," the mission said in a post on X.

Local media identified the suspect as Vijay Kumar, 51, of Atlanta. Gwinnett County police said the victims were Kumar’s wife, Meemu Dogra (43), along with Gourav Kumar (33), Nidhi Chander (37), and Harish Chander (38).

Police said they received a 911 call around 2.30 am local time from a home on Brook Ivy Court. Officers arriving at the scene found four adults dead inside the house, each with fatal gunshot wounds.

Investigators said three children were present when the shooting began. The children hid in a closet to protect themselves, and one of them managed to call emergency services, helping police reach the scene within minutes.

The children were not injured and were later taken into the care of a family member.

The suspect has been charged with multiple offences, including counts of aggravated assault, felony murder, malice murder and cruelty to children. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.

Source: News18