Daijiworld Media Network - Panchkula

Panchkula, May 27: In a heartbreaking incident, seven members of a family from Dehradun, including three children, were found dead in a car parked in Panchkula late Monday night, in what appears to be a case of mass suicide due to financial distress.

The tragedy came to light after locals noticed the stationary vehicle outside a house for an unusually long time. Upon peering inside, they were shocked to find the lifeless bodies of the family members. They immediately rushed the victims to the hospital, but all were declared dead on arrival.

The deceased have been identified as Praveen Mittal (42), his elderly parents, his wife, and three young children two daughters and a son. The family had come to Panchkula to attend a religious event at Bageshwar Dham and were reportedly returning to Dehradun when they allegedly consumed poison.

Panchkula deputy commissioner of police Himadri Kaushik confirmed the deaths and said, “We were informed that six people were brought to Ojas Hospital and declared dead. Another individual was taken to Civil Hospital, Sector 6, and was also declared dead. Preliminary findings point towards suicide. A scientific investigation is underway.”

Officials said a suicide note was recovered from the vehicle, indicating that the family took the extreme step due to mounting debt and severe financial hardship. Specific details of the note have not been disclosed as the investigation continues.

The bodies have been shifted to a private hospital mortuary, and further legal procedures are being followed. The tragic incident has sent shockwaves through both Panchkula and Dehradun communities.