Chikkamagaluru police weigh suicide theory in Kerala teen’s death at tourist spot

The police said an accidental slip appears less likely, noting that the area was crowded at the time with 60 to 100 people present, yet no one reported hearing screams or witnessing any disturbance. Investigators also pointed out that the terrain—filled with rocks, trees, and bushes—would typically slow or break a fall, raising questions about how the body ended up at such a depth. They suggested this could be more consistent with a deliberate jump.

“Prima facie, no foul play is suspected. We are awaiting the post-mortem report and forensic analysis to corroborate the findings and determine the exact cause of death,” a senior Chikkamagaluru police officer said.

Crossed safety barricades

According to Chikkamagaluru police sources, the girl, who was with nearly 40 relatives, crossed the safety barricades installed at the location and went missing around 5 pm on April 7. The barricades, consisting of three parallel grills about 5 feet high, are meant to prevent visitors from entering hazardous areas.

Her father had scolded her for crossing the barricade shortly before she disappeared.

At the time, around 60 to 100 people were present at the spot. “There were no reports of any commotion, arguments or screams that would suggest foul play,” a police officer said.

Search efforts were launched soon after she was reported missing, and her body was recovered in a decomposed state nearly four days later.

They also pointed out that no mobile phone was recovered. The girl had been using her mother’s phone to take photographs before she went missing.

The Chikkamagaluru police added that the site is a popular tourist destination that sees around 1,000 visitors daily, and no similar incident has been reported there before.