Thiruvananthapuram, July 25: A shocking incident has rocked Kerala’s Pathanamthitta district, where three members of a family died and two others were hospitalised in critical condition after allegedly consuming pineapple juice suspected to be laced with poison.
According to local police sources, the incident occurred in Enathu village. The deceased have been identified as 70-year-old Rajan, his wife Latha (65), and their 28-year-old daughter-in-law Rekha. Two other family members, including Rekha’s husband and their young daughter, are currently undergoing treatment in the ICU at the district hospital.
Suspected Poisoning
Initial reports suggest that the family consumed pineapple juice prepared at home. Within an hour of consumption, all five members started experiencing symptoms such as vomiting, dizziness, and difficulty in breathing. Neighbours rushed them to the hospital, but three of them were declared dead on arrival.
The local police have registered a case of unnatural death and sent the remaining juice and other food items for forensic testing. While authorities have not confirmed the presence of poison, they are not ruling out foul play.
Family Dispute Angle
Preliminary investigation has hinted at a possible family dispute, and officials are not ruling out the possibility of intentional poisoning. The police have questioned several relatives and are also checking CCTV footage from nearby shops to determine if any suspicious purchases were made.
A senior police officer stated, “We are exploring all angles — accidental contamination, suicide, and homicide. Forensic reports will be crucial to establishing the cause.”
Local Shock and Grief
The incident has left the local community in shock. Hundreds of neighbours and relatives gathered outside the hospital and the family’s home to mourn the sudden tragedy. Enathu village council has announced a day of mourning, and schools in the area remained closed on Thursday.
Local MLA K. Ramesh, who visited the grieving family, demanded a fast-track investigation and urged people to be cautious about food hygiene and family safety.
Forensic Team In Action
A special forensic team has collected samples from the kitchen, refrigerator, and food waste bins. Post-mortem examinations have been conducted at the Pathanamthitta Government Hospital, and preliminary results are expected within 48 hours.
What’s Next?
Authorities have assured the public of a thorough investigation. The Kerala State Crime Branch may take over the case if any criminal conspiracy is confirmed.
Final Thoughts by TheTrendingPeople.com:
This heart-wrenching tragedy serves as a reminder of how domestic issues or accidental contamination can escalate into deadly consequences. While the investigation is underway, the need for food safety awareness and timely mental health support within families cannot be stressed enough.