Domestic dispute ends in tragedy

By Sagaya Fernando | June 9, 2025

Mumbai, INDIA: A 60-year-old man allegedly shot and killed his wife before taking his own life early Sunday June 8 morning in a residential complex in the Worli neighborhood of South Mumbai, according to police officials.

The incident occurred between 5:30 am and 6:30 am on June 8, at Siddharth Nagar, a multi-story apartment complex located near Gokhale Road. Authorities identified the deceased as Rajmanohar Nampelly and his wife, Lata Nampelly, 52.

Police say preliminary investigations suggest that Rajmanohar may have been distressed over on-going domestic disputes, particularly his perception that his wife consistently sided with their adult son during family arguments. Investigators believe this may have contributed to his decision to carry out the murder-suicide.

According to neighbours and building staff, the first signs of trouble emerged when the family failed to respond to repeated calls from the milk delivery person, newspaper vendor, and the building’s security guard. After receiving no answer for an extended period, concerned staff alerted local authorities.

When police entered the apartment, they reportedly found Lata deceased in bed with a gunshot wound. Rajmanohar was found nearby in the passage with a self-inflicted gunshot wound, and a country-made firearm was recovered at the scene. Both individuals were transported to a nearby hospital, where they were pronounced dead on arrival.

The Worli Police Department has launched an inquiry under applicable sections of the Indian Penal Code and is working to confirm the motive behind the act. Forensic teams and ballistic experts have been called in to assist with the on-going investigation.

No criminal record or history of prior complaints has been reported against the family, police added.