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Indian-origin man arrested in Louisiana store shooting
The victim remains in critical condition with severe facial injuries and requires multiple reconstructive surgeries.
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Malvika Choudhary - Mon, 27, Apr 2026
- 17:26 EDT
- 52
Soniya Gajera / Go Fund Me
A 40-year-old Indian origin man was arrested in Bossier City in connection with a shooting inside a convenience store that left his wife critically injured earlier this month.
Sharad Gajera surrendered to police on April 21 after an arrest warrant was issued and was booked on charges of illegal use of a weapon, authorities said.
Also Read: Indian national held in $13M Florida drug case
The case relates to an April 4 incident at Mezo Grocery and Deli, where police said a firearm in Gajera’s possession discharged at close range during a meeting with the store owner over a possible business purchase.
The bullet struck his wife, 30-year-old Jigisha alias Soniya Gajera, entering through her mouth and exiting through her jaw, causing severe facial injuries.
Police have described the shooting as accidental, though the investigation remains ongoing. Witnesses cited by local media questioned that characterization, raising concerns about the presence of a loaded firearm in a commercial setting.
Soniya Gajera remains in critical condition and is undergoing treatment at Ochsner LSU Health. Doctors said she has sustained extensive damage to her jaw, teeth, and lower lip, and is currently dependent on assisted breathing and artificial nutrition.
Medical experts have indicated she will require multiple procedures, including jaw and facial reconstruction and dental implants, with long-term recovery uncertain, according to family members.
Authorities have not disclosed details about the couple’s immigration status.
A crowdfunding campaign launched by family and community members states that Soniya had recently moved to the United States and was working part-time while planning to pursue cosmetology training.
The fundraiser has set a target of $200,000 for medical treatment and recovery and has raised $16,915 through 85 donations as of the latest update
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