The deceased was separated from her husband and was living with her minor son. She reportedly had a relationship with the accused for the last few years.
| Photo Credit: Illustration by Satheesh Vellinezhi
Hulimavu police arrested a cab driver for allegedly setting his 25-year-old former friend on fire after they broke up, on Hommadevanahalli main road in Bengaluru on August 31.
The deceased, Vanajakshi, was separated from her husband and was living with her minor son. She reportedly had a relationship with the accused, Vittala, aged around 50, for the last few years.
The accused used to allegedly fight with Vanajakshi for cheating on him and avoiding him. On August 31, Vanajakshmi, her sister and nephew were heading to St. Johnâs hospital in a car driven by Muniyappa, a distant relative with whom she allegedly had a relationship.
Vittala allegedly followed them in a car and started honking. When Muniyappa slowed down, the accused got down from his car and allegedly poured petrol inside their car. Muniyappa was injured when he tried to resist.
Sensing trouble, Vanajakshi got out of the car and fled from the spot. Vittala allegedly chased her and poured petrol on her when she tripped and fell on the ground.
He lit the petrol with a lighter. He also suffered injuries in the incident.
Passers-by doused the fire and rushed Vanajakshi to a hospital where she succumbed on September 1 due to 60% burn injuries.
Based on a complaint filed by Muniyappa, the police tracked down Vittala and took him into custody.
Before breathing her last, Vanajakshi reportedly asked Muniyappa to take care of her minor son and ensure that Vittala is punished for his crime.
Published â September 01, 2025 05:07 pm IST
