The victim, identified as Shobha, lived with her husband Ranganath in Kote Beedi in the Hirapur locality. According to investigators, the attack took place at approximately 1.03am when a man allegedly entered the house and slit her throat while her husband, who is mentally challenged, lay beside her.
Police said the couple had no children and lived alone. Ranganath has reportedly been mentally challenged for about 15 years. Earlier on the day of the incident, the couple had returned home after their routine morning walk.
Arrest and Alleged Motive
Police have arrested Shivakumar, a wholesale shop owner, in connection with the murder. Investigators allege that the crime was financially motivated.
According to officers, the accused was attempting to clear a debt of around ₹8 lakh. Shobha, who was the daughter of a jewellery shop owner, was reportedly wearing substantial gold ornaments at the time of the attack. Police believe the suspect searched the house for cash after killing her.
Body Discovered by Doctor
The crime came to light when a doctor arrived at the residence to administer physiotherapy to Ranganath and found Shobha lying dead beside him. Police said Ranganath appeared unaware of what had taken place.
CCTV footage from the neighbourhood allegedly captured a man leaving the area on a motorcycle shortly after the incident. Investigators traced the vehicle’s registration number through nearby surveillance cameras, which led them to Shivakumar.
Further investigation into the case is ongoing.
