In a shocking turn of events in the gruesome murder case of 29-year-old Mahalakshmi, the prime suspect, Mukthirajan Pratap Roy, has reportedly died by suicide while evading capture in Odisha. Roy's lifeless body was discovered hanging from a tree in Bhadrak district on Wednesday, September 25, as confirmed by Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Central-Bengaluru, Shekar H. Tekkannavar. Mahalakshmi, a colleague of Roy's at a local clothing store, was found murdered in her home earlier this month.
Authorities revealed that the horrific nature of the crime included her body being mutilated into more than 50 pieces and stored in a refrigerator. The discovery of her dismembered body came following complaints from neighbors about a foul odor emanating from her residence, leading her family to intervene. Roy had reportedly fled Bengaluru after allegedly committing the crime, believed to have been driven by jealousy. Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara announced the formation of a special police team to investigate the case, highlighting the urgency surrounding the capture of Roy, who had been on the run.
Initial investigations into Roy's death suggest suicide; however, specific details regarding the circumstances remain unclear as authorities continue their inquiry. The police are also looking into the possibility of any accomplices or underlying motives that may shed light on this brutal act. Mahalakshmi, originally from Tripura, had been living alone in Bengaluru for approximately five months, only occasionally interacting with her neighbors.
Reports indicate that she was married and had a son, though she resided separately. The case has drawn public attention and comparisons to the notorious Shraddha Walker murder case in Delhi, amplifying concerns regarding safety and domestic violence. As investigations unfold, both the police and the community remain in shock over the tragic events that have transpired, raising questions about the factors leading to such heinous crimes in modern society. Further updates are expected as officials continue to piece together the disturbing details of this case.