Residents of Oro Ekpo Estate in Ada George, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, were thrown into mourning after a retired Marine Captain, David Nwoke, was allegedly hacked to death by his own son during a violent dispute over a car.

The horrific incident, which occurred on Sunday morning, has left neighbours in shock, with eyewitnesses describing the scene as one of the most disturbing tragedies ever witnessed in the quiet neighbourhood.

According to sources familiar with the incident, the late Captain Nwoke had concluded arrangements to relocate to his ancestral home in the eastern part of the country. As part of the move, he reportedly invited his children to inform them of his plans to dispose of some of his properties and share his assets among them.

However, what was meant to be a peaceful family arrangement reportedly turned tragic after one of his sons allegedly demanded ownership of one of the vehicles his father intended to take to the village.

The request was reportedly declined, leading to a deadly confrontation.

A source said the suspect, believed to be the son of the deceased's second wife, allegedly hid inside his father's waiting room while the retired officer went for his usual morning exercise.

Unaware of the danger ahead, the elderly man reportedly returned home and headed upstairs to freshen up when his son allegedly emerged from hiding and launched a brutal machete attack.

"The deceased had already settled all his children financially and educationally. They all studied abroad, including the suspect. Yet he insisted on taking the car and allegedly refused to let his father leave with it," the source said.

The source further disclosed that a housekeeper rushed in to rescue the retired officer but was also allegedly attacked by the suspect before escaping to seek help.

Despite suffering severe machete wounds, Captain Nwoke reportedly managed to run downstairs in a desperate attempt to save his life. The suspect allegedly pursued him and attacked him again, inflicting multiple fatal cuts until he collapsed in a pool of blood.

After the attack, the suspect allegedly took the vehicle keys and locked himself inside one of the rooms in the house.

One of the domestic staff reportedly fled the compound and alerted neighbours, who immediately contacted the police.

Operatives from the Rumupakani Police Division swiftly responded to the distress call, arrested the suspect and took him into custody.

Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, Superintendent Blessing Agabe, said the suspect remains in police custody.

"I can confirm that the suspect is in police custody. Investigations have commenced with a view to ensuring that justice is served," Agabe said.

The tragic killing has sparked widespread outrage, with many residents describing it as a heartbreaking reminder of the devastating consequences of greed and family conflict. Police say investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.