Police in the state of Texas have apprehended a suspect in connection with the tragic killing of a 32-year-old Indian national, Dasari Gopikrishna, during a robbery at a convenience store in Dallas.Â
Gopikrishna, who had relocated to the United States just eight months prior, was fatally shot on June 21 at a convenience store in the Pleasant Grove area of Dallas. Originally from Yajali village in the Bapatla district of Andhra Pradesh, he had moved to the US seeking better opportunities.
The police have arrested 21-year-old Davonta Mathis for the murder of Gopikrishna. Mathis is facing capital murder charges, as he allegedly shot Gopikrishna multiple times, including in the head, during the robbery. According to police reports, Mathis entered the store, approached the counter, and shot Gopikrishna before stealing items and fleeing the scene.
Gopikrishna was rushed to the hospital in critical condition but sadly succumbed to his injuries. Initially charged with robbery, Mathis’s charge was upgraded to capital murder following Gopikrishna's death. His bond has been set at USD 7.5 million.
Sgt. Curtis Phillip of the Mesquite Police Department described Mathis' actions as "very bizarre" and noted the significant impact of such a severe decision at a young age. Mathis is also implicated in another fatal shooting that occurred in Waco city on June 20, where he is accused of shooting 60-year-old Muhammad Hussain multiple times, leading to Hussain’s death in the hospital.
Meanwhile, officials from the Indian consulate are working with Gopikrishna's family to make arrangements for the repatriation of his body. Representatives from the Telugu Association of North America (TANA) and family friends are assisting the consulate to facilitate the transportation of Gopikrishna's body back to his hometown in India. The consulate has confirmed that all police autopsies and necessary formalities have been completed, and they aim to prioritize the shipment of the body by Tuesday.
This incident marks the second killing of a convenience store clerk working the night shift within a short period, deeply impacting the Indian community in Dallas and surrounding areas. Gopikrishna leaves behind his wife and son, who are now grappling with this devastating loss.
