Kamal Ghorui
AHMEDABAD: A sudden gunshot during a conversation at a convenience store in the US state of Louisiana has changed a 30-year-old woman’s life.The victim, originally from Gujarat, is now battling for survival after a bullet ripped through her jaw. Her husband has been arrested in connection with the case.Doctors say her recovery will require multiple surgeries, and a crowdfunding effort is underway to support her treatment.The victim, Jigisha alias Soniya Gajera, suffered devastating facial injuries when a firearm discharged on April 4 inside Mezo Grocery and Deli in Bossier City.According to police, the weapon was in the possession of her husband, Sharad Gajera, when it went off at close range, sending a bullet through her mouth and out of her jaw.Sharad was arrested on April 21 on charges of illegal use of a weapon after surrendering to authorities following the issuance of a warrant. Investigators said the couple was negotiating with store owner Vince Mezo over a possible purchase of the outlet when the incident occurred.While police have described the firing as accidental, the circumstances have raised serious concerns. Eyewitnesses told local media that the couple was speaking with the store owner when a sudden gunshot rang out. Several witnesses questioned the “accidental” claim, pointing to the risk posed by carrying a loaded firearm into a public commercial space.Soniya remains in critical condition at a hospital in Bossier City, where doctors say her injuries are life-altering. The bullet impact has left her unable to eat normally, with severe damage to her teeth, jaw and lower lip. She is currently dependent on assisted breathing and artificial nutrition and continues to remain in a fragile state.Medical experts indicate that her recovery will be long and complex, requiring multiple surgeries, including jaw reconstruction, facial reconstruction and dental implants, the woman’s relatives said. Even with treatment, a full recovery remains uncertain, they added.Authorities have not disclosed details about the couple’s immigration status.Amid the crisis, community members have launched a crowdfunding campaign to support her mounting medical expenses. The fundraiser, which has set a target of $2,00,000 (Rs 1.9 crore approx), highlights Soniya’s personal struggles and resilience. According to the appeal, she recently moved to the United States with hopes of building a better future. She aspired to become a cosmetologist while working part-time.The appeal also notes her past hardships, including the loss of her younger brother and her role as a caregiver to her father during his prolonged illness. Supporters describe her as a pillar of strength who now faces an overwhelming battle far from home.As of April 24, the campaign has raised $9,135 (Rs 8.6 lakh approx)through 51 donations — only a fraction of the required amount.
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