Thrissur, 13 July (H.S.):A suspected family suicide attempt, believed to have been triggered by severe financial hardship, claimed the lives of a father and his teenage daughter in Kerala's Thrissur district on Sunday, while the mother and son remain in critical condition at a hospital.

The deceased have been identified as Sibi, 50, and his 18-year-old daughter, Aleena, residents of Kunnamkulam. Sibi's wife, Beena, and their 17-year-old son, Adithyan, are undergoing intensive treatment after they were found unconscious at their residence.

According to preliminary findings, Sibi had been working in the Gulf but recently returned to Kerala after losing his job. Investigators believe the family had been struggling under mounting financial liabilities, which may have driven them to take the extreme step. Police are examining the circumstances leading to the tragedy, though financial distress is emerging as the primary line of inquiry.

Officials said Sibi is suspected to have consumed poison before jumping into a nearby well. His body was later recovered by rescue personnel. Aleena is believed to have consumed poison before dying by suicide inside the house. The bodies of both father and daughter have been shifted to Kunnamkulam Taluk Hospital, where post-mortem procedures are expected to be conducted.

Beena and Adithyan were also found after allegedly consuming poison and were rushed to hospital by local residents and emergency responders. Their condition continues to be critical, doctors said.

Police have registered a case and launched a detailed investigation into the incident. Statements from relatives and neighbours are being recorded to establish the sequence of events and to determine whether the family had been facing prolonged financial or personal difficulties.

The tragedy has sent shockwaves through Kunnamkulam, with local residents expressing grief over the loss and calling for greater support systems for families facing severe economic distress.

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or overwhelming emotional distress, please seek immediate help from a trusted family member, a mental health professional, or a local suicide prevention helpline. Support is available, and help can make a difference.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman