Class 9 student attacks hostel mates with bed rod in Karnataka’s Ballari, one dead

A Class 9 student allegedly attacked fellow students with an iron bed rod inside a residential school hostel in Karnataka’s Ballari district, leaving one student dead and several others injured, police said.

The incident took place late Saturday night at a Gurukul residential school hostel after students had gone to bed following dinner. According to preliminary investigations, the accused student removed an iron rod from a bed and began attacking classmates sleeping inside the dormitory.

Police said the boy assaulted multiple students during the rampage. At least eight students were attacked in the incident, one of whom later died from severe injuries. Several others sustained injuries, with some reported to be in critical condition.

The injured students were rushed to the Vijayanagara Institute of Medical Sciences (VIMS) hospital in Ballari for treatment. Medical officials said several victims are undergoing treatment while doctors continue to monitor those with serious injuries.

During the attack, the accused student also allegedly assaulted the hostel warden and a driver before fleeing the premises. Police teams have launched a search operation to trace the student, who is currently absconding.

Investigators believe the attack may have been triggered by a minor dispute among students, though the exact motive is still being examined. Forensic teams and crime scene officers have been deployed to collect evidence from the hostel.

The victim’s family has questioned the school administration’s version of the incident and demanded a thorough probe, alleging lapses in hostel security. Authorities have assured that a detailed investigation is underway to determine the circumstances behind the attack.

Police said statements of students, staff and parents will be recorded as part of the investigation.