Bengaluru: A drunken quarrel allegedly turned fatal in Vivek Nagar after a 63-year-old man strangled his 48-year-old live-in partner and left her body on a footpath, police said.
The deceased has been identified as Geetha alias Manju, while the accused, Jerry Antony, has been arrested by the police.
Couple allegedly fought frequently
According to police, the couple were homeless ragpickers who had been living together for around five years. They reportedly slept on footpaths at different locations, including near the BDA Complex and a church.
Antony was allegedly addicted to alcohol, and the couple were said to frequently quarrel over petty issues.
Police said the latest dispute broke out on Friday after Antony allegedly consumed alcohol and got into a heated argument with Geetha.
Woman allegedly strangled on footpath
The incident reportedly occurred between 4 pm and 4.45 pm on 4th Cross in Vivek Nagar. Antony allegedly strangled Geetha during the quarrel before fleeing from the spot.
Police were alerted about the woman’s body at around 10 pm. An investigation was launched and Antony was arrested the following day.
During interrogation, police said Antony allegedly confessed to the crime and told investigators that he and Geetha had been in a relationship for five years.
Police investigate circumstances
The incident has brought attention to the difficult circumstances faced by homeless people living on Bengaluru’s streets.
Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding Geetha’s death and the events that preceded the alleged assault.
The accused has been arrested, while further investigation is under way.