Daijiworld Media Network - Solapur

Solapur, Mar 16: A 68-year-old man and his wife were found murdered at their residence in Krishnanagar near Swagatnagar in Solapur, creating panic in the locality.

The deceased have been identified as Mahadev Narsappa Manchal (68) and his wife Rangamma Manchal (62). According to preliminary findings, the couple was allegedly killed by suffocation.

Officials from MIDC Police Station suspect that the murders may be linked to an ongoing dispute over property within the extended family. However, police said further investigation is underway and no accused has been identified so far.

The incident came to light around noon on Sunday when neighbours grew suspicious after the couple did not open their door till late in the day. Rangamma was usually seen outside the house every morning, and her absence raised concerns among nearby residents.

Neighbours knocked repeatedly on the door but received no response. Growing suspicious, they eventually broke open the door and discovered the elderly couple lying dead inside the house.

After receiving information about the incident, a police team led by inspector Vijay Khomne rushed to the spot and conducted a preliminary investigation. The bodies were later sent to the government hospital for post-mortem examination.

According to police sources, the preliminary autopsy report confirmed that both victims died due to suffocation after their breathing was forcibly blocked.

Investigators are examining whether a pillow or another object was used to suffocate the couple. Police have registered a case against unknown persons and have begun a detailed probe into the double murder.