New York
A heartbreaking incident unfolded in Newport, North Carolina, as Satyen Naik, a 46-year-old Indian-origin motel owner, lost his life in a tragic shooting incident. The alleged assailant, 59-year-old Troy Kellum, a homeless individual, reportedly shot Naik before barricading himself inside a room at Hostess House and eventually taking his own life. Newport Police Chief Keith Lewis disclosed that the authorities received a call regarding trespassing at the motel, leading to a distressing situation. Responding promptly, both the police department and Carteret County Sheriff’s Office engaged at the scene. Naik, who operated the family-owned motel alongside his family, was rushed to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries. The unfolding events prompted the activation of the Special Response Team (SRT) to address the barricaded situation. Despite prolonged negotiations, Kellum resisted all attempts for a peaceful resolution, resulting in a tragic conclusion when he shot himself as the Special Response Team intervened. Kellum, described as homeless, had been squatting at the motel and other nearby buildings. Previous legal troubles, including charges of obtaining property by false pretenses in 2020, and probationary status added complexity to the unfolding tragedy. The incident highlights the challenges posed by homelessness and underscores the need for community awareness and vigilance.
