In a heartbreaking incident near Gummidipoondi, an 18-year-old boy lost his life after suffering severe burn injuries while attempting to save his mother, who had allegedly set herself on fire due to financial distress.
The deceased, Amanullah, sustained nearly 80 per cent burns and succumbed to his injuries on Wednesday morning at the Government Kilpauk Medical College and Hospital. His mother, Noori (50), is undergoing treatment for around 60 per cent burns.
Financial strain cited as trigger
Noori, a resident of Gururaja Kandigai near Kavarapettai, had reportedly been facing severe financial hardship after incurring losses in a chit fund scheme. According to neighbours, she had borrowed money from multiple sources to recover the loss but was unable to repay her debts, leaving her distressed for several months.
On Tuesday night, while at home with her son, a student at a religious school near Avadi, she allegedly poured kerosene over herself and set herself ablaze. Amanullah rushed to intervene, but the kerosene reportedly spilled onto him as well, causing both to suffer critical burn injuries.
Neighbours immediately alerted emergency services and shifted them to hospital.
Probe underway
The Kavarapettai Police Station have registered a case and launched a detailed investigation. Police sources indicated that Noori’s statements were inconsistent, and investigators are probing all angles, including the possibility of foul play.
The incident has sent shockwaves through the local community, raising concerns about the devastating impact of financial distress on vulnerable families.
Authorities have urged individuals facing emotional or financial crisis to seek timely support. Assistance for those experiencing distress is available through Tamil Nadu’s health helpline (104) and Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline (044-24640050).