Suspect in Toddler's Rape Killed in Police Encounter

Lucknow

A 26-year-old man, Deepak Verma, accused of raping a two-and-a-half-year-old girl, died Friday after a police encounter in Lucknow. Verma, who had a ₹1 lakh reward on his head, was shot in the Alambagh area.

The horrific incident came to light when the girl's parents, who live near a metro station, reported the rape on Thursday. Police immediately launched an investigation, forming five teams and announcing the reward. CCTV footage from the metro station captured Verma on a white scooter, taking the girl behind a lift around 3 AM.

Police identified Verma through his scooter's license plate. Late Thursday, officers located him, but he reportedly opened fire when confronted. Verma sustained serious injuries in the exchange and later died at Lokbandhu Hospital. Officials stated Verma worked as a water vendor. The young victim is currently in critical condition at King George Medical University, receiving treatment.