Jilted lover in Kerala sets ablaze 17-year-old girl; both die

Kochi, October 10

A 17-year-old girl died after she was allegedly set ablaze by a man who reached her residence near here in the wee hours of Thursday.

Midhun from North Paravu, who poured petrol on Class 12 student Devika and set her ablaze, also died after he was engulfed by the fire, police said.

The incident occurred at Athani in Kakkanad under Info Park police station limit here.

Police suspect that the youth embraced the girl after setting her ablaze to kill himself.

The girl’s father, Shalan, suffered burns as he tried to shield his daughter from the accused. He had been admitted to a hospital here, police said.

According to police, Midhun reached the residence of the girl at around 12.15 am. When the girl’s father opened the door, he demanded to see the girl.

He poured petrol on the girl and set her ablaze when she came out of her room.

Police rushed to the spot after being informed by the neighbours.

Doctors declared both dead soon after they were taken to the hospital.

The youth who allegedly professed love for her committed the crime after the girl allegedly spurned his proposal.

Thrikkakara MLA PT Thomas visited the residence of the victim. Condemning the incident, Thomas demanded a thorough probe. PTI