The following morning, chaos enveloped the area surrounding Evan's once-grand home.
A massive crowd had gathered, their whispers and murmurs mixed with the clamor of reporters scrambling to capture the latest details.
The area was filled with the sounds of camera shutters clicking and microphones were being thrust toward anyone who might offer information.
The luxury community had been invaded by onlookers, all staring at the piles of debris.
Evan's home, now a blackened skeleton of twisted metal and charred wood, was cordoned off by yellow police tape. Officers patrolled the perimeter, ensuring that no one ventured too close to the hazardous site. A few had been stationed to manage the growing crowd and keep the situation under control.
Soon, a team of police investigators arrived. Their faces were grim as they started pushing the crowd back and began their work, examining the scene meticulously, surveying the damage and collecting any left evidence.
Nearby, a few other officers worked to recover the burnt and sunken bodies found amidst the rubble, their faces hidden behind masks and protective gear.
Amidst the flurry of activity, Officer Mridul, the officer in charge of the case, approached the scene. His expression was a mask of professionalism as he reviewed the initial reports and findings.
A senior reporter, eager to make sense of the chaos, approached Mridul. "Officer Mridul, can you give us any information about what happened here? Why did the explosion occur, and who was the target?"
Mridul took a deep breath and began to speak. "We suspect the explosion was the result of a coordinated bombing. It appears the plan was to target Mr. Evan, though the exact motives still remain unclear."
Another reporter quickly followed up. "Do we have any leads on who might be responsible for this? Was there a specific reason for the attack?"
Mridul's expression remained serious. "At this point, we suspect that the attack was likely carried out by individuals with a personal vendetta against Mr. Evan. The intensity of the explosion and the precision of the timing suggest that the perpetrators were highly determined and well-prepared. There might have been a significant feud or deep-seated grudge between them and Mr. Evan."
A third reporter pressed further, "Has there been any indication of how they might have gained access to the property? Was it an inside job or an external attack?"
Mridul glanced at the burned remains of the house. "The evidence suggests that the attackers had detailed knowledge of the property's layout and security systems. We are currently investigating all possible angles, including whether there was any insider involvement or if the attack was purely external. But it's too early to say for certain."
Another voice from the crowd called out, "Have you identified the victims who were inside the house?"
Mridul gave them a measured nod, not entirely convinced but noting their high-profile status. "We appreciate your concern. For now, we are focusing on the investigation. If you have any information or need assistance, please let us know."
Maria shot back, "Yes, we will cooperate but before that, you need to look for suspicion. Previously, a government agent killed one of the bodyguards and now this. I think the government agents are involved in this."
The moment Mridul heard this, his face turned pale.
_____
Meanwhile, in a bustling campaign office, Amit Sharma was deeply engrossed in the preparation for an upcoming election rally. The room was filled with volunteers and staffers working on the rally's last-minute details.
Amit Sharma, scanning the paper, was making final adjustments to his speech when his assistant rushed in with an urgent expression on his face.
"Sir, you need to hear this," the assistant said, handing Amit Sharma a phone with breaking news flashing on the screen.
Sharma's eyes widened as he read the headline.
"Evan's House Bombed, Multiple Casualties Reported."
The news sent a jolt of shock through him. His face turned pale as the weight of the situation sank in.
"Evan? He is dead?" Sharma muttered to himself, his mind racing. He had been aware of Evan's influence and the tension surrounding him but had never anticipated such a drastic turn of events.
"Did our agents attack?"Amit Sharma asked, still a bit stunned.
"No, Sir. As far as I know, no one from our side. And as for Evan, we don't have track of his movements. Either he is dead or he is hiding somewhere."
Amit's expression darkened, and his mind went into a deep thought. "Now, who targeted him... Did he finally snap out and attack?"
Taking a deep breath, he tried to steady himself before ordering, "I remember he went on holiday. Check if he returned, and if he has, he is dead for real."