Camilla Jessen
Groom shot as guest fires into air, dozens die in aftermath.
A wedding celebration turned into chaos when a guest firing an automatic rifle accidentally shot the groom, unleashing a violent chain reaction that left 57 people dead.
The widely circulated footage has intensified scrutiny of celebratory gunfire traditions across the region.
The tragedy occurred on November 28 in Amdirib, a village in Chad’s Batha region, during what began as a routine wedding procession.
A tragic salute
Local outlets reported that the groom was associated with Sudan’s Rapid Support Forces militia.
The guest seen approaching on a motorbike, believed by some reports to be the groom’s brother, raised an assault rifle to fire a ceremonial burst into the air.
Such salutes remain common in some rural communities despite official restrictions.
Witnesses said the shooter held the rifle in one hand, and the recoil forced the muzzle downward mid-salute. A bullet struck the groom in the chest as he stood nearby. Initially unaware of the impact, the guest turned away until gasps from the crowd caused him to look back and realise he had hit the groom.
Some reports say the groom was rushed to a hospital in Ati, while others state he died at the scene.
Violence erupts
The accidental killing rapidly escalated into retaliatory clashes between the families.
Local media say 57 people died in the outburst of violence that followed.
Authorities have not released further details regarding suspects or arrests.
A dangerous tradition
Celebratory gunfire persists in parts of Chad despite consistent warnings.
Officials note that both direct shots and falling bullets can be lethal.
Similar incidents have been recorded globally: in India, a groom’s father was recently shot dead during a “baraat” procession, while a 2003 wedding in Serbia saw a small aircraft brought down by stray gunfire.
Historical data from Los Angeles shows that dozens have died from falling-bullet injuries.
Sources: Local Chadian media reports; Daily Star.
