Sonipat: A two-year-old family rivalry turned deadly in Sonipat’s Khandrai village on Monday morning when armed assailants allegedly ambushed two brothers inside a public toilet, killing one and critically injuring the other.Police said Sombir and his brother Praveen had gone to a public toilet near the village temple around 6am when Vinod, Aditya and several accomplices, who were allegedly lying in wait, attacked them with iron spikes and other sharp-edged weapons.Sombir suffered severe head injuries and died at the govt hospital in Gohana, while Praveen, who sustained multiple injuries, was referred to Bhagat Phool Singh Government Medical College for Women at Khanpur Kalan, where he remains under treatment.Villagers rushed to the spot after hearing the brothers’ screams, forcing the attackers to flee. The complainant alleged that the accused also threatened to kill the family before escaping.Police said the attack stemmed from a long-running feud between the two families. About two years ago, Aditya had lodged a case against Praveen alleging misconduct with a young woman, following which Praveen was jailed.Investigators said tensions escalated again two to three days before the attack after Praveen and Aditya allegedly clashed at Vinod’s fast-food stall.A forensic team examined the crime scene and collected evidence. Based on Praveen’s statement, police registered a case of murder, attempt to murder and other relevant offences.The prime accused, Vinod, has been arrested, while raids are underway to nab the remaining suspects. Police said further investigation is in progress.
