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Bengaluru: What was first believed to be a tragic case of suicide or accidental death has now been officially confirmed as a murder after a detailed police investigation in east Bengaluru. The case involves the death of a 34-year-old software professional who was found dead inside her rented apartment earlier this month. Initial assumptions were based on the presence of fire damage inside the house, but deeper forensic and investigative efforts revealed a far more disturbing sequence of events.

Background of the Incident

The victim, identified by police as Sharmila, was residing alone in a rented flat located in the Subramanya Layout area of Ramamurthy Nagar, a residential locality in eastern Bengaluru. On January 3, neighbors noticed smoke coming from her apartment and immediately alerted emergency services. Fire personnel managed to douse the flames, after which Sharmila was found dead inside the house. At first glance, the situation appeared to be a case of accidental death caused by suffocation due to smoke inhalation.

Initial Assumptions and Early Investigation

In the early stages, investigators treated the incident as a suspected suicide or accidental fire-related death. There were no immediate signs of forced entry, and the fire damage initially seemed consistent with an accidental blaze. The post-incident environment inside the flat made it difficult to immediately determine whether foul play was involved. As a result, police began routine procedures related to unnatural death while awaiting forensic reports.

Breakthrough in the Case

As the investigation progressed, inconsistencies began to surface. Forensic examination and scene reconstruction indicated that the fire may not have been accidental. Further analysis revealed injuries on the victim’s body that were inconsistent with death by suffocation alone. These findings prompted investigators to reclassify the case from a suspected suicide to a confirmed homicide.

Accused and His Background

Police identified the accused as Krishnayya, an 18-year-old Pre-University Course student originally from Kerala. He lived in a house located directly opposite Sharmila’s apartment. According to investigators, the accused was known to the victim and had developed a one-sided emotional attachment toward her. Neighbors later confirmed that Sharmila had occasionally spoken to the youth, though there was no indication of a close relationship.

Sequence of Events on the Night of the Crime

According to police findings, the accused allegedly entered Sharmila’s flat late at night through a sliding balcony window. Once inside, he is said to have behaved inappropriately and hugged her from behind. When Sharmila resisted and attempted to escape, the accused allegedly struck her on the neck, causing her to lose consciousness. Police believe he then strangled her, leading to her death.

Attempt to Destroy Evidence

In an effort to make the crime appear accidental and to erase evidence, the accused allegedly set fire to the bedroom. The fire gradually spread to other parts of the apartment, creating the illusion of an accidental blaze. This deliberate act initially misled investigators and delayed the discovery of the true cause of death. However, forensic evidence later confirmed that the fire was staged after the murder.

Motive Behind the Crime

Investigators stated that the motive behind the murder was rooted in obsession. The accused reportedly harbored unreciprocated feelings toward the victim and was unable to accept her rejection. Police believe this one-sided fixation escalated into violence, ultimately resulting in the crime. Statements from neighbors and digital evidence helped establish the nature of the accused’s behavior and mindset.

Arrest and Ongoing Investigation

The accused has been arrested and produced before a magistrate, who remanded him to three days of police custody. Authorities are continuing their investigation to reconstruct the exact timeline of events and to collect additional forensic and digital evidence. Police officials stated that the case highlights the importance of thorough investigation, especially in incidents that initially appear accidental.

Broader Implications

This case has raised concerns about personal safety, particularly for individuals living alone in urban areas. It also underscores the dangers of unchecked obsession and the need for early intervention when warning signs are noticed. Law enforcement officials emphasized that community awareness and timely reporting can play a crucial role in preventing such crimes.