In a freak mishap, a 15-year-old boy was injured after an arrow pierced his brain during an archery practice session at a sports club in Dahisar on Friday morning. Brijesh Sahani , the victim, underwent a surgery at Karuna Hospital in Borivali where the arrow was extricated. His condition is stable. The MHB Colony police registered a case of 'negligence' and 'causing grievous hurt' against a 17-year-old boy who shot the arrow as well as his supervisor.

The incident took place around 8.30 am at Vishwapragati Sports Club on Dahisar Link Road. The accused is a national lever archer and will represent Maharashtra in a competition two days later. He was practising at one end while Sahani and his friends were playing cricket on the other side. When Sahani went to retrieve the cricket ball, the arrow pierced above his ear. Police said the accused had shot the arrow from a distance of 70 metres. Sahani was rushed to the Karuna Hospital where he underwent a life-saving surgery later in the day.

“Sahani was brought to the hospital in a semi-conscious state. He complained of being drowsy. After initial tests, we found that a rod had pierced through and through his brain. A while later, he developed weakness in the right arm. He then started getting fits and was immediately started on anti-epileptic medicine,” said a doctor, adding that the arrow had gone into his brain tissue. “Sahani's vital parameters are now stable. He continues to be on ventilator for supportive respiration. The extent of damage caused by the accident can only be gauged once Sahani gains consciousness,” the doctor said.

Sahani is a resident of IC Colony (extension) in Borivali West. No arrests were made on Friday. The accused is a Dahisar resident.