Rayagada, May 10: In a shocking incident in Odisha’s Rayagada town, a young man who was allegedly kidnapped following a firing episode was later found dead near the Nagavali River at Tumbiguda, police officials reported on Sunday.

The deceased, identified as Nikhil Hadipa from the Reli Sahi locality of Rayagada, was reportedly abducted late Saturday night from Indira Nagar 3rd Line area.

According to preliminary reports, a group of unidentified attackers allegedly chased Nikhil around 10 pm using a motorcycle and a four-wheeler. Witnesses claimed that an altercation broke out between the two parties, during which the assailants allegedly opened fire as Nikhil attempted to flee.

In an effort to escape, Nikhil reportedly ran into a nearby house seeking safety. However, the attackers allegedly forced their way in, dragged him out, and abducted him before escaping towards the Ring Road area.

His body was later discovered near the Nagavali River close to Tumbiguda, triggering panic in the locality.