Moodbidri: The body of a 42-year-old man, suspected to have died by suicide after jumping into the Hosanagady river, was recovered near Nettodi on Wednesday evening, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Body recovered after search
The deceased has been identified as Latheesh Poojary (42), a resident of Miyar village in Karkala taluk. His body was found floating in the river near Nettodi after local residents alerted the authorities. Police personnel rushed to the spot and recovered the body with the help of locals before shifting it for further procedures.
According to police sources, Latheesh is survived by his wife and two children. His sudden death has left the family and villagers in deep grief.
Background and recent return from abroad
Sources said Latheesh had been working abroad for several years and had returned to his native place only recently. After coming back, he reportedly went to Hosanagady, where his wife’s family resides. Family members indicated that he appeared disturbed over personal matters after his return, though no formal complaint had been lodged earlier.
It is learnt that a domestic dispute reportedly took place on Sunday over an undisclosed issue. While the exact nature of the disagreement is yet to be ascertained, police sources said it may have contributed to his mental distress.
Distress message to brother
According to sources familiar with the case, Latheesh had sent a message to his elder brother in Miyar village, expressing emotional distress and anxiety. Alarmed by the contents of the message, his brother is said to have immediately counselled him over the phone, urging him not to take any extreme step and assuring him that the matter could be resolved through discussion.
Despite the counselling, it is suspected that Latheesh, troubled by family-related issues, later went to the Hosanagady river and jumped into it. The exact sequence of events leading to his death is being verified as part of the investigation.
Police action and investigation
Venoore police visited the spot soon after the body was recovered and registered a case of unnatural death. Officers said preliminary findings point towards suicide, but they are continuing the investigation to rule out any other angle.
Police have begun recording statements from family members, relatives and others who were in contact with Latheesh in the days leading up to the incident. The mobile phone of the deceased is also expected to be examined to gather further information regarding his state of mind.
The body was sent for post-mortem examination to confirm the cause of death. Police officials said the final report would help establish whether there were any injuries or factors other than drowning involved.
Community in shock
Residents of Miyar village and surrounding areas expressed shock over the incident, describing Latheesh as a quiet individual. Several villagers said his return from abroad had raised hopes that he would soon settle down with his family, making the incident all the more distressing.
Local leaders and community members visited the family to offer condolences and support during the difficult time.
Call for emotional support
Police and social workers have reiterated the need for people facing emotional distress to seek timely help and support from family members, friends or professional counsellors. They stressed that personal and domestic issues should be addressed through dialogue and mediation rather than allowing them to escalate into crises.
Conclusion: The tragic death of Latheesh Poojary has highlighted the emotional strain that unresolved personal issues can place on individuals. As police continue their investigation, the incident serves as a reminder of the importance of mental health awareness and timely intervention during periods of distress.
