Karachi, Pakistan: Independence Day celebrations in Karachi took a tragic turn as negligent celebratory gunfire claimed the lives of three people, including an elderly man and an eight-year-old girl. More than 60 others sustained injuries in incidents across multiple neighborhoods, including Azizabad, Korangi, Liaquatabad, Lyari, Mehmoodabad, Akhtar Colony, Kemari, Jackson, Baldia, Orangi Town, and Paposh Nagar. In Azizabad, a young woman was shot, while a man named Stephen died in Korangi. Authorities reported at least 64 people were injured citywide.
Police immediately launched investigations and pledged strict action against those responsible for the aerial firing. Injured victims were transported to Civil Hospital, Jinnah Hospital, Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Gulistan-e-Johar, and other private facilities. Over 20 suspects have been arrested so far. Similar celebratory gunfire incidents in January resulted in at least 42 deaths, including five women, and left 233 people injured.
#FPWorld | Independence Day celebration in Pakistan's Karachi took a dark turn after three people, including a senior citizen and an 8-year-old girl, were killed in the city due to "reckless" aerial firing.https://t.co/hWwFVQ6gwz
— Firstpost (@firstpost) August 14, 2025