NEW DELHI: A notorious criminal, Shehzad, was shot dead in an encounter with Meerut police after he opened fire during a chase, officials said. The accused, wanted for multiple crimes including the rape of a minor girl, was cornered near an isolated area on the outskirts of the city.Meerut SSP Vipin Tada said, “In the Sarurpur police limits, an encounter broke out this morning. Shehzad had seven cases against him, including rape, loot, and attempt to murder. He was previously jailed for five years in connection with the rape of a minor girl. After his release, he committed another heinous crime against a seven-year-old girl, leaving her grievously injured. A bounty of Rs 25,000 had been announced for his arrest.”According to reports, Shehzad fired at police after being pinned down. In retaliatory firing, officers shot him, leading to his death on the spot. No police personnel were injured during the exchange.Authorities recovered a pistol and several cartridges from the scene. Shehzad’s body has been sent for post-mortem, and a detailed investigation has been launched.(With agency inputs)