A Nihang youth was killed and three others were seriously injured after a minor dispute over giving way to a vehicle escalated into a shootout between two groups in Batala on Friday.The deceased, Deepinder Singh, also allegedly fired from his licensed pistol amid the melee. (HT)The incident, which occurred near Symbol Chowk on the busy Batala-Gurdaspur Road, sent passers-by scurrying for cover.According to preliminary information, an argument broke out between two vehicle drivers over crossing and right of way. The verbal altercation soon turned violent, with members of both groups allegedly opening fire at each other using their licensed firearms.Eyewitnesses said the two sides were engaged in a heated argument following the road rage incident and some bystanders attempted to calm the situation. However, the dispute quickly escalated when youths travelling in a Toyota Fortuner allegedly began firing from their pistols.Witnesses said three youths from one group returned fire, while a Nihang youth travelling in the other vehicle, identified as Deepinder Singh, also allegedly fired from his licensed pistol.During the exchange of gunfire, Deepinder was shot and died on the spot. Three other youths suffered gunshot wounds and were rushed to hospital. One of the injured is reported to be in critical condition.Senior police officials, including SSP Mehtab Singh, reached the scene and initiated an investigation. Speaking to the media, the SSP said preliminary findings indicated the incident was a fallout of road rage. He confirmed that both parties used their licensed revolvers during the clash.The SSP a case was registered and further legal proceedings were underway.Police are examining CCTV footage and other evidence to determine the sequence of events and fix responsibility for the firing.