Nagpur: A tragic incident at a popular pan-Asian restaurant, Toquo, in Dharampeth claimed the life of a 26-year-old cashier after a knife thrown during a joke struck his neck. The case falls under the jurisdiction of Sitabuldi Police Station.

The deceased, Avadhesh Kumar (26) from Raebareli, Uttar Pradesh, had recently moved to Nagpur for work. The accused, Ayush Negi (24), a bartender from Uttarakhand, has been detained by police.

According to preliminary investigation, the incident occurred around 5 pm on Thursday when staff members were engaged in casual conversation due to low customer presence. The banter escalated into an argument, during which both allegedly began throwing knives kept at the counter.

Ayush reportedly threw a folded knife used for cutting lemons. The knife opened mid-air and pierced Avadhesh’s neck, likely near the windpipe. Despite being seriously injured, he walked out of the restaurant before being rushed to Dande Hospital and later to Wockhardt Hospital, where he was declared dead.

Police said there was no prior enmity or criminal background. The incident was captured on CCTV, and further investigation is underway.