Navy sailor, wife and 2 kids found dead in Mumbai home; police suspect murder-suicide

Police have registered an Accidental Death Report (Representation image)

MUMBAI: A 30-year-old Indian Navy sailor, his wife and two children were found dead inside their official residential quarters at Navy Nagar in south Mumbai’s Cuffe Parade area on Saturday night.According to preliminary information, investigators suspect that Puranmal Shambulal Mehra died by suicide. Prima facie findings indicate that poisoning may have caused the death of his wife Oma (28), three-year-old son Darsh, and two-month-old daughter, although officials stressed that the exact cause of death can only be determined after detailed forensic and post-mortem reports are received.The family hailed from Rajasthan. Puranmal’s younger brother, who is also serving in the Indian Navy posted on the outskirts of the city, arrived in Mumbai to claim the bodies from J J Hospital.According to police, Puranmal’s father tried to contact him at night, but when his calls went unanswered, he got worried and alerted the Navy’s control room. Naval officials reached the Mehras’ quarters and found Puranmal dead in the living room and the bodies of his wife and children in a bedroom. The officials then informed Cuffe Parade police.The bodies were shifted to J J Hospital, where all four were declared dead.

A forensic science laboratory team collected evidence from the scene. Police said no suicide note was found during the search of the house and nothing suspicious, like poison, was detected during the forensic inspection.During preliminary questioning of neighbours and persons known to the family, police learnt that the couple, who had been married for four to five years, were allegedly facing marital discord and frequently quarrelled.

“A week ago, Oma’s father had come to Mumbai to take her back home. However, Puranmal reportedly refused and told him that if she wished to leave she could do so, but he would not allow the children to go with her.

We will enquire what was the reason behind the couple’s infighting,” a police officer said.Police are recording detailed statements of family members, neighbours, and other relevant witnesses to establish the sequence of events leading to the deaths.Post-mortem examination conducted at J J Hospital confirmed that Puranmal died due to asphyxia caused by hanging. However, the medical team has reserved its opinion regarding the exact cause of death of Oma and the two children pending the results of forensic and chemical analysis reports.Cuffe Parade police have registered an Accidental Death Report and further investigation is underway.An Indian Navy official described the incident as “unfortunate” and said the Navy was extending full cooperation to the Mumbai Police’s investigation.“The circumstances that led to the suspected suicide and the deaths are yet to be established. We are providing all necessary assistance to the investigating agencies,” the official said.Need help? Contact, MPower Mental Health Helpline 1800-120-820050, Ankahee Foundation on 86-554 86-966 or Samaritans on 8422984527 (Monday to Friday 10.30am to 3.30pm)