Tragic Discovery in Puri: Couple Found Hanging, Son Taken Into Custody

On a quiet morning in the coastal town of Puri, neighbours were startled by the sight of police tape fluttering across the front gate of a modest house on Laxmi Road. When officers entered, they found the lifeless bodies of a middle‑aged couple, both hanging from the ceiling fan in what appeared to be a joint suicide.

The couple, identified as Ramesh Kumar (58) and his wife Smt. Sunita (55), were well‑known in the locality for running a small tea stall near the Jagannath Temple. Their sudden and grim demise left the community reeling, with many recalling the couple’s warm smiles and generous nature.

According to the local police, the discovery was made after a relative, who had not heard from the couple for several days, grew concerned and knocked on the door. Finding no response, the relative called the police, who broke down the door and uncovered the tragic scene.

Adding a layer of complexity to the case, officers took the couple’s only son, 28‑year‑old Arjun Kumar, into custody for questioning. Police spokesperson Sub‑Inspector Nivedita Patnaik said, “We have detained the son as part of standard procedure. Our primary aim is to understand the circumstances that led to this heartbreaking incident.” She emphasized that the detention was not an accusation of wrongdoing, but a step to gather facts.

Friends of the family have expressed mixed feelings. “It’s shocking. We never imagined something like this could happen to them,” said Smt. Leela, a neighbour. “Arjun is a decent boy; we hope the police treat him fairly.”

The investigation is still in its early stages. Detectives are reviewing phone records, financial statements, and any recent disputes that might hint at motive. Rumours of financial stress and a recent argument with a local lender have circulated, but officials have cautioned against speculation.

Meanwhile, the house has been cordoned off, and a forensic team is documenting the scene. The community has begun a modest vigil outside the property, lighting candles and offering prayers for the departed souls.

As the case unfolds, local authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to step forward. “Our thoughts are with the family,” said Sub‑Inspector Patnaik. “We are committed to uncovering the truth, however painful it may be.”