Indian Actor Arrested After Stampede at Movie Screening Kills Woman

Arrest Made in Connection with Fatal Stampede

An Indian actor was arrested on Friday after his appearance at a movie screening allegedly prompted a stampede by fans that crushed a woman to death, police and local media said. The 42-year-old actor, Allu Arjun, was taken into custody at his residence in connection with the incident.

Stampede Occurred at Movie Screening in Hyderabad

The stampede occurred on December 4 at a theatre in the southern city of Hyderabad, where huge crowds had gathered to catch a glimpse of Arjun as he arrived for the screening of his film “Pushpa 2: The Rule”. The victim, a woman in her 30s, was attending the screening with her son, who was also seriously injured.

Arjun Arrested on Suspicion of Three Offences

Arjun was arrested on suspicion of three offences, including voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means, a police officer told AFP, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to speak to media. The officer added that seven other people had already been arrested in the case.

Video Shows Actor’s Arrest

A video on social media platform X, shared by broadcaster TV9, showed the actor holding a coffee mug as he spoke to officers who arrived at his residence to take him into custody.

Victim’s Family Files Complaint

The woman’s family later filed a complaint against Arjun, his security team, and the theatre management, media outlet India Today reported.

Actor’s Response

Arjun said he was “deeply heartbroken” two days after the accident. “While respecting their need for space to grieve, I stand committed to extend every possible assistance to help them navigate through this challenging journey,“ he wrote on X.

Arjun’s Popularity and Success

Arjun is hugely popular in southern India, and the Pushpa film franchise has made millions at the box office. He won best actor at India’s National Film Awards for his title role in the first instalment of the series, released two years ago.

Conclusion

The incident highlights the risks and consequences of fan frenzy and the importance of ensuring public safety at events. The investigation is ongoing, and it remains to be seen what further action will be taken against those involved.

FAQs

Q: What happened at the movie screening?
A: A stampede occurred at a movie screening in Hyderabad, resulting in the death of a woman and serious injuries to her son.

Q: Who was arrested in connection with the incident?
A: Indian actor Allu Arjun was arrested on suspicion of three offences, including voluntarily causing hurt by dangerous weapons or means.

Q: What was the cause of the stampede?
A: The cause of the stampede is still under investigation, but it is believed to have been triggered by the large crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of Arjun as he arrived for the screening.

Q: What was Arjun’s response to the incident?
A: Arjun said he was “deeply heartbroken” and committed to extending every possible assistance to help the victim’s family navigate through this challenging journey.