Andhra school attack accused shot during arrest attempt, police say

The Andhra school attack suspect Hemanth was wounded in police firing near Atmakur on Sunday, November 1, after allegedly attacking an officer during an attempt to arrest him, police said. He is accused of attacking two Class 10 students at a school in Anantapur district the previous morning.

District Superintendent of Police Jagadish said officers had received information about the suspect's presence near Atmakur and sent two teams to the area. Fifteen teams had been assigned to locate him following the school incident.

Police describe search and arrest operation

According to the police account, Hemanth resisted arrest and used a knife against officers. Police said they first fired into the air, then fired six rounds towards his legs when he continued to resist.

A circle inspector was injured during the operation. Jagadish said the officer was in a stable condition and that the injured accused was also receiving treatment.

The Andhra school attack took place at about 10 am on Saturday, October 31. One student was critically injured in the alleged chainsaw assault, while another was hurt as she tried to protect her.

The critically injured student initially received treatment at Anantapur Government General Hospital. Doctors worked for nearly eight hours to stabilise her before she was transferred through a green corridor to Manipal Hospital in Bengaluru.

She subsequently underwent an operation lasting nearly 12 hours and was moved to intensive care. Andhra Pradesh minister Nara Lokesh visited the hospital on Sunday and discussed her treatment with doctors.

Lokesh said the state would support her treatment and rehabilitation. He also acknowledged the need for stronger school safety arrangements and preventive measures.

Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan condemned the attack and promised support to the family. The opposition YSR Congress Party sought Lokesh's resignation as education minister, alleging failures in protecting students at school.

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