The Kolathia attack under Khandagiri police limits in Bhubaneswar has turned more tragic as Himanshu Padhi, father of slain youth Krushna Padhi, died while undergoing treatment at AIIMS Bhubaneswar.
The incident began when masked assailants stormed the Padhi residence late Sunday night and attacked Krushna Chandra Padhi, a 20-year-old student from Sorada, Ganjam. The attackers used iron rods, killing Krushna instantly. Himanshu and his daughter Tapasi Padhi suffered severe injuries while trying to save him.
Doctors admitted both victims to AIIMS Bhubaneswar. Himanshu succumbed to his injuries yesterday, while Tapasi remains in critical condition.
Police arrested two suspects, including minors, and sent them to jail. Investigators suspect the crime stemmed from a triangular love story, though they are also probing other possible motives such as property disputes or personal enmity.
Officials confirmed that if minors are found directly involved, they will be sent to a juvenile home, while adult suspects will face trial in court.
The Padhi family had lived in Kolathia for nearly two decades. Relatives said they had no known enmity with anyone, intensifying the mystery around the brutal attack.
Police teams are examining CCTV footage and forensic evidence to establish the exact sequence of events.
