Family tragedy in Anekal: Debt angle suspected in double murder, suicide attempt

A 27-year-old man allegedly killed his mother and sister, injured his nephew, and later attempted to end his own life at their house in Attibele in Bengaluru on March 29.

The accused, Mohan Gowda, is reported to have killed his mother Asha (55) and sister Varshita (34), and injured Varshita’s 11-year-old son Mayank. Mohan Gowda and Mayank are currently undergoing treatment at a private hospital, and are said to be in critical condition.

According to police, the incident came to light late night on March 29 after Mohan sent a video message to his relatives stating his intention to die by suicide. Alarmed, family members rushed to the house around 10 p.m. Finding the main door locked, they broke open the back door and entered the house.

Inside, Asha and Varshita were found dead, while Mohan and Mayank were lying in a pool of blood with their throats slit. The victims were immediately shifted to a hospital, where the two women were declared dead.

Preliminary investigation suggests that Mohan attacked the others before attempting suicide.

The initial probe indicated that Mohan may have been motivated by financial distress. He was reportedly involved in a chit fund business dealing in amounts ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹1 crore. He is believed to have been facing a mounting debt and pressure from creditors.

Bengaluru district Superintendent of Police Chandrakanth said that the Attibele Police reached the spot around 10.30 p.m. Initial findings point to severe financial stress as a possible motive, he added.

A case has been registered at Attibele Police Station. An investigation is underway to establish the exact sequence of events and the motive.

Police are examining the video message sent by Mohan as part of the probe.

(Those having suicidal tendencies can call Arogya Sahayavani 104 for help)