In a harrowing incident from Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, India, the bodies of five members of the same family were discovered at their residence on Tuesday. Alongside the bodies, authorities recovered a recorded video message and a handwritten note on the wall, offering a glimpse into the tragic final moments.
The deceased have been identified as Manish Kumar (35), his wife Seema (32), and their three children: Hani (8), Priyanshi (5), and Pratik (3). According to Manish’s nephew, the couple had married in 2018.
Neighbours became concerned when, even after morning, no one emerged from the house. After breaking down a door, they found the family lying lifeless inside and immediately alerted the police. Initial speculation suggested the family may have ingested poisoned milk on Monday night, as glasses of milk were found near the bodies.
However, the post-mortem report revealed a far more disturbing reality. Manish died from electrocution, his wife hanged herself, and the three children had been asphyxiated, according to senior police officer Sholok Kumar.
Summary of Deceased Individuals
| Name | Age | Cause of Death |
|---|---|---|
| Manish Kumar | 35 | Electrocution |
| Seema | 32 | Hanging |
| Hani | 8 | Asphyxiation |
| Priyanshi | 5 | Asphyxiation |
| Pratik | 3 | Asphyxiation |
Prior to the police’s arrival, Manish’s brother had peered into the house through a window but observed no movement. Upon breaking a wall to enter, he discovered the tragic scene in its entirety.
Authorities have stated that Manish recorded a video message before the deaths, which adds an element of mystery and finality to the case. In the footage, he stated:
“We are taking our own lives voluntarily. No one is to be held responsible for our deaths. I plead with the police not to harass anyone. I am deeply distressed, and I request that no one puts another in harm’s way.”
He also clarified financial matters in the recording, mentioning that he had recently sold a plot of land for 1.2 million rupees and that he did not hold the buyer accountable in any way.
A note found on the wall inside the house echoed the video’s message:
“We, Manish and Seema, are ending our lives voluntarily.”
Additionally, a diary recovered from the home contained a similar suicide note, further corroborating the deliberate nature of the act.
Police continue to investigate the underlying motives behind this tragic event, including possible familial or financial pressures. Experts emphasise the importance of mental health awareness and community vigilance in preventing such devastating incidents.