AKKAR — A young man killed his brother in Akkar, northern Lebanon, after a verbal fight escalated into an violent one and ended in bloodshed.

What was apparently a sudden dispute between two young brothers in the border town of Wadi Khaled escalated dramatically into a physical confrontation until one of them shot the other in the neck, fatally wounding him. The victim was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

A patrol from the army and security forces arrived at the scene and launched an investigation into the incident. The shooter fled the scene, and efforts are ongoing to apprehend him.

Gun violence is a significant security issue in Lebanon, where weapons circulate freely. Easy access to firearms in times of tension and anger — exacerbated by a crippling economic crisis that plunged the majority of the population into poverty — greatly increases the likelihood of confrontations becoming deadly. Over the past year, several gunfights between feuding families and between family members have erupted in Akkar, which is especially effected by the country's dire financial situation.

Earlier in February, former caretaker Interior Minister Bassam Mawlawi announced several measures taken by the security forces. He mentioned the intensification of patrols throughout the territory, the reinforcement of security forces personnel.

In January wave of violent crimes in the country sparked public outcry, with many taking to social media to express their frustration and accuse authorities of inaction.