Indian-origin store owner shot dead during robbery in US; daughter escapes unhurt
PTC News Desk: A 62-year-old Indian-origin shop owner was shot dead during an armed robbery at his store in Tennessee, US, while his 19-year-old daughter watched in horror. Police said the incident happened on Thursday night, and the motive is still being investigated.
Suresh Patel, who was from Gujarat’s Mehsana district, was killed at Ridgecrest Cellars Wine and Spirits in Jackson at around 9 pm, according to police. Local reports said Patel had taken over the store only a few days before the incident, and his daughter was present when he was shot.
According to witnesses, a masked gunman entered the store, pointed a gun at the employees and demanded money. After getting the cash, he reportedly fired several shots, hitting Patel. He died at the scene.
Police said CCTV footage showed the suspect wearing a grey hoodie, jeans, black work boots and a paintball-style mask. He reportedly escaped in a white sedan. Police have warned that the suspect is armed and dangerous.
The suspect remains at large, and police have launched a search for him. Authorities have appealed to the public to share any information that could help identify or locate him.
A 70-year-old employee who had worked at the store since it opened also fell during the incident and suffered a broken wrist, according to local reports.
Other Attacks On Gujarati Business Owners
Patel’s killing comes amid concerns over violent robberies targeting Gujarati convenience store and business owners in the US.
In May 2025, 30-year-old Paresh “Prince” Patel was shot dead during a robbery at a Tennessee gas station.
Two months ago, Meghna Patel, a Gujarati woman, was shot dead inside her store in Norfolk, Virginia.
In September 2025, Kiran Patel, who was originally from Charotar, was shot dead in a parking lot after confronting an armed robber who had entered her store.
- PTC NEWS
