A 42-year-old hotel consultant, Pradeep C, tragically ended his life by setting himself on fire inside his car on Vishweshwaraiah Layout Road, West Bengaluru, on Saturday afternoon. Police believe severe financial distress and debts amounting to ₹70 lakh drove him to the extreme step.
Pradeep, a resident of Nagarabhavi II Stage, specialized in setting up hotel kitchens but faced significant business losses over the years. He had also lent money to others, further complicating his financial situation. Though no suicide note was recovered, his family confirmed his struggles with debt as a likely cause.
Eyewitness Jagan recounted hearing a loud explosion and noticing a car engulfed in flames. “The fire spread rapidly, making it impossible to approach the vehicle. The fire department extinguished the blaze after 30 minutes, revealing a charred body inside.”
Authorities identified Pradeep using a FASTag that survived the fire. A case of unnatural death has been registered, and an investigation is underway.
Pradeep is survived by his wife and a 10-month-old daughter. This heartbreaking incident underscores the devastating impact of financial burdens on mental health.
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