THODUPUZHA: A 57-year-old man, identified as Joseph, was found dead near a shed in a rubber plantation at Kaithakkandam, Methotty, on Thursday. Joseph had been working as a caretaker of a private property in Poomala and resided in a shed on the premises.

According to police, Joseph collapsed while returning to the shed after a visit to Poomala town. Initial investigations pointed to a possible heart attack, which was later confirmed as the cause of death following a postmortem at Thodupuzha District Hospital.

Inquest proceedings were led by Kanjirappally Sub-Inspector Baiju P Babu, after which the body was released to the family. Joseph is survived by his wife Valsa, and children Jinu and Manu.

The incident has brought sorrow to the local community where Joseph was a familiar and trusted figure.