Rourkela: Suspected Maoists on Wednesday gunned down one person near Kusumdihi in Lahunipara police limits.

Two people were injured in the attack and battling for life at Rourkela Government Hospital. Three persons - Sunil Munda, Tuichi Munda and Francis Munda - were trying to trace the missing bullock of Sunil around midnight.

At that time, they heard a sound emanating from a nearby bush.

The trio thought a child lifter might be hiding behind the bush. So, they started to throw stones at the bush. Soon the stone throwing was retaliated by a several rounds of bullets.

Two bullets hit Sunil on his neck and chest killing him on the spot. Tuichi was hit on his leg, left hand and back.

Fortunately, Francis was not hit but while trying to save himself, he got injured.

At the same time, a group of people belonging to Bhuyansahi of Baunrikela was returning on a tipper carrier from a feast.

The bullets hit the tipper as well, but no one was injured. Those sitting inside the cabin, including driver Patras Munda and others, also escaped injuries.

Police shifted Tuichi to Lahunipara health centre, where the doctor advised to shift him to Rourkela.

At Rourkela Government Hospital, doctors declared him stable.

Eyewitnesses said there were over five to six persons in the attack.