A dispute over bursting firecrackers during Diwali celebrations in Badoli village in Himachal Pradesh's Una district escalated when a man allegedly drove his Thar into his neighbours, killing a couple and injuring two others, police said on Monday.
Locals angered by the incident thrashed the accused, who was also taken to hospital in a critical condition. Cross FIRs have been filed over the incident, they said.
The two families, who reportedly had a past dispute, were celebrating Diwali on Sunday evening when an argument over firecrackers broke out.
Jarnail Singh, who sells second-hand cars, allegedly drove his Thar into his neighbours in a fit of rage, killing Omkar Singh and his wife, Veena Devi. Two other members of the neighbouring family were also injured in the incident.
The incident sparked widespread outrage among residents. People nearby allegedly caught Jarnail Singh and assaulted him.
With the help of the police and others, Jarnail Singh was taken to the Regional Hospital in Una. He was reportedly referred to the PGIMER in Chandigarh because of his critical condition.
Police said cross FIRs have been registered and further investigations are underway. The accused, who also sustained injuries, is under treatment and yet to be arrested, they said.
News of the incident spread across Una, with many expressing grief and anger on social media.
(With inputs from PTI)