Koppal: A 55-year-old jeweller, burdened by mounting debt, allegedly died by suicide along with his wife and teenage son in Gangavathi town of Karnataka’s Koppal district, in a tragic incident that has shocked the local community.

The deceased have been identified as Prakash Raikar (55), his wife Prabha (46) and their son Shashank (19). The three were found hanging inside a house that had once belonged to the family.

Family returned to their former home

According to police, Prakash had been facing severe financial distress for several years. He had sold his house around five years ago due to debt and continued to live there as a tenant until February 2026.

Police said the family allegedly entered the house through the back door on Thursday night after it had been vacated. Investigators believe they chose to end their lives in the home they had once owned.

Shashank, an engineering student studying at a college in Bengaluru, had reportedly returned to Gangavathi only a few days before the incident.

Financial troubles under investigation

Preliminary investigations indicate that Prakash’s financial difficulties had worsened over time. Police said the family had to vacate the house after it was foreclosed by a bank when the buyer, identified as Nagaraj, allegedly defaulted on a loan taken against the property.

Koppal Superintendent of Police Dr Ram L. Arasiddhi said investigators are examining all possible angles to determine the circumstances that led to the deaths.

“We will probe the case from all angles,” the police officer said.

The bodies have been sent for post-mortem examination, and a case has been registered for further investigation.

The incident has once again drawn attention to the emotional and financial pressures faced by families struggling with debt, highlighting the need for timely support and intervention.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or overwhelming emotional distress, seeking help from trusted family members, friends or a qualified mental health professional can make a difference. In India, you can also contact emergency services or a recognised suicide prevention helpline for immediate support.