Chennai police probe father-daughter deaths in locked apartment; doctor detained over suspected foul play. (Image: Pexels) 
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Father-Daughter Found Dead in Locked Apartment in Chennai; Doctor Detained in Suspicious Death Probe

Chennai police uncover a shocking case of suspected medical negligence and foul play after finding a father and daughter dead in a locked apartment in Thirumullaivoyal

Dr Sreelekshmi P

In a shocking incident, the decomposed bodies of a 78-year-old man and his 36-year-old daughter were found inside a locked apartment in Thirumullaivoyal, Chennai. The deceased have been identified as Samuel Sankar (78) and Ann Cynthia (37), both natives of Vellore. They had been residing in the city for Samuel’s dialysis treatment at a private hospital.

Concerned relatives, unable to reach them over the phone, alerted the Thirumullaivoyal Police. Officers traced their mobile signals and forced entry into the locked apartment, where they discovered the bodies in an advanced state of decomposition.

Doctor Detained for Investigation

During the initial probe, police scrutinized Cynthia’s call records, leading them to Samuel Ebinezer (34), a medical graduate from Vienna. He had been in close contact with Cynthia and was reportedly providing dialysis treatment to her father. Ebinezer, who was staying in the same apartment complex, was detained for questioning.

Investigators revealed that Cynthia, estranged from her husband, had moved into the apartment on Ebinezer’s suggestion. He allegedly took over her father’s medical care, including dialysis procedures.

Possible Medical Negligence and Foul Play

Preliminary findings indicate that Samuel Sankar may have died in September, allegedly due to improper medical treatment. A dispute reportedly broke out between Cynthia and Ebinezer following her father’s death. During the argument, Ebinezer allegedly pushed Cynthia, causing her to lose consciousness. Fearing the consequences, he reportedly fled the scene, locking the apartment without informing authorities.

Police are investigating whether Samuel’s death resulted from medical negligence or natural causes, as well as the exact circumstances of Cynthia’s death.

Chemical Used to Suppress Odour?

Authorities noted that the apartment’s air-conditioning had remained on for an extended period after the deaths. Additionally, investigators suspect that a chemical, possibly camphor, was used to suppress any foul odour, as neighbours did not report anything unusual.

Investigators suspect that a chemical, possibly camphor, was used to suppress any foul odour, as neighbours did not report anything unusual. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

Ongoing Investigation

Inspector George Miller of the Thirumullaivoyal Police has sent the bodies for postmortem examination, and forensic experts are working to establish a clear sequence of events. Authorities are also verifying Ebinezer’s confession and examining whether his medical qualifications allowed him to perform dialysis procedures.

Further investigations are underway to determine if criminal charges, including medical malpractice or homicide, will be filed against the suspect.

(Input from various sources)

(Rehash/Dr. Sreelekshmi P/MSM)

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