A man allegedly set his wife and son on fire, who died of burn injuries, before attempting to end his life at Araikulam village near Muneerpallam in the district on Sunday.
According to police, P. Saveriya, 65, reportedly poured petrol on his wife Mercy, 57, and son S. Bino, 27, and set them ablaze and locked the house from outside. He then poured petrol on himself and set himself fire outside the house. Neighbours alerted the police, who rushed to the scene and rescued the victims. Mercy and Bino were rushed to Tirunelveli Government Medical College and Hospital, where doctors declared them brought dead. Saveriya, who sustained 50% burns, was admitted to the hospital.
Preliminary investigation revealed that Saveriya had been working abroad and returned to India a few years ago. Since then, he had frequent misunderstandings with his family. His elder son got married a few days ago, which further strained the family’s relationship. Police said a domestic dispute appeared to have triggered the crime.
A case of murder wasc registered at Muneerpallam police station, and further investigations are underway.
(Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the State’s health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416, Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050 and Speak2Us helpline at 9375493754)
Published – August 24, 2025 09:15 pm IST
