Pankaj Rana was 22 when he died inside a Sylacauga, Alabama, convenience store on Monday, August 21, 2023. He had come from Haryana, India, to work in the United States and was employed at the Chevron Hop-In where the fatal incident occurred.

According to reports, an employee-held firearm was being handled inside the store when it accidentally discharged. The single gunshot struck Pankaj, who was pronounced dead at the scene. Closed-circuit camera footage was reported to show him inspecting the revolver moments before it went off. Local authorities investigated and described the shooting as accidental and non-criminal; no arrests were announced.

A local GoFundMe was started to help cover funeral costs and repatriation of his remains to his family in India. If anyone witnessed the incident or has additional information about the days leading up to August 21, please come forward.