Hitchhiker expected to appear in court after allegedly stealing a firearm and fatally shooting its owner

A 34-year-old man is expected to appear at the White River Magistrate's Court tomorrow, Monday 16 November 2020, following his alleged involvement in a horrific scene in which he reportedly stole a firearm and fatally shot its owner yesterday. The incident occurred next to a fuel station in White River.

According to information, Andrew Thulare, aged 46 was driving together with his brother and they noticed this man in question hitch-hiking. They then gave him a lift as they were going to the same direction that he was travelling to. The driver is said to have hidden the firearm in his car but unfortunately the man who was given a lift, saw where it was. Along the way, Thulare and his brother stopped for a break at a food restaurant next to the said fuel station and left the other man in the car. The man then allegedly stole the firearm and ran on foot. Thulare saw him running and he went inside his car only to realise that his firearm was gone. He then pursued the man who reportedly turned and shot him before abandoning the scene. 

The security forces around the area of White River policing precinct gave chase and cornered the suspect. He was found in possession of the said firearm and ammunition. 

The police as well as the paramedics were notified about the incident and upon arrival, Thulare was certified dead at the scene. A case of murder was opened with unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition as well as theft of firearm as additional charges laid against the suspect.

The police management has since condemned the murder and applauded the security forces for their swift reaction which resulted in the man's arrest.