Bishop dies after fall from Erode GH flyover

Bishop of the Church of South India (CSI) Erode–Salem Diocese, Rev. Jacob Livingston, 56, died after falling from a flyover near the District Headquarters Hospital in the early hours of Saturday (February 14, 2026).

Police said the incident occurred when the Bishop was on his routine morning walk on the flyover accompanied by his driver. During the walk, he fell from the flyover onto Meenatchi Sundaranar Road below and sustained severe injuries. His driver, with the help of passers-by, rushed him to the hospital. However, doctors declared him brought dead, stating that he had succumbed to injuries on the way to the hospital.

On receiving information, CSI Church administrators and members assembled at the hospital. A large number of Christian community members and members of the public also gathered, leading to heavy police deployment on the premises to maintain order.

Police have registered a case and initiated an inquiry. Officials said investigations are under way to ascertain whether he accidentally slipped from the flyover or if there were other circumstances surrounding the fall.

A native of Aratholuvu village near Kangeyam in Tiruppur district, Bishop Livingston assumed charge as Bishop of the Erode–Salem Diocese on August 16, 2025. The diocese covers Erode, Salem, Namakkal, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri and Kallakurichi districts. He is survived by his wife and a daughter, who is pursuing college studies.