Kandhamal, Ap 20: In a tragic incident in Kandhamal district, a Class X student, Bibhuti Kahanr (16) was killed in what police believe was an accidental shooting during a late-night hunting expedition. The incident occurred in Budeni village under Tikabali police limits.

Bibhuti, who had recently appeared for his Class Xth board examinations, was staying at the hostel of Ranapatuli High School. He had gone hunting in the nearby Maniadami forest with two youth, Pratap Kahanr and Suman Bindhani.

According to reports, Pratap had borrowed an unlicensed country-made gun, while Suman carried another firearm and a sharp weapon. During the hunt, shots were fired from both weapons, and one bullet allegedly struck Bibhuti near his right eye, piercing through the back of his head and killing him instantly.

Tikabali police have registered a case and are investigating the circumstances of the incident, while efforts are on to locate the two youth who were with Bibhuti.