What initially appeared to be a tragic accident has now become a shocking murder investigation in Bengaluru. Police arrested a 22-year-old father nearly a month after the death of his 11-month-old daughter. Meanwhile, investigators continue searching for the child’s mother, who remains missing.
The case took a dramatic turn after doctors completed the post-mortem examination. Instead of injuries consistent with an accidental fall, forensic experts found multiple serious injuries across the baby’s body. Consequently, police rejected the family’s original account and registered a murder case.
Authorities believe fresh forensic evidence and witness statements played a key role in changing the direction of the investigation.
What Happened on June 9?
The incident took place on June 9, 2026, between 2 PM and 3 PM, in Kitaganur village under the Avalahalli Police Station limits in Bengaluru.
According to the initial complaint, Shekhappa, a tractor driver from Yadgir district, told police that his daughter Renuka accidentally fell from a cot while her mother, Vijayalakshmi, slept after feeding her.
The family rushed the infant to a nearby private hospital. However, doctors declared her dead on arrival.
At first, police registered an Unnatural Death Report (UDR) because they found no immediate evidence of foul play.
Post-Mortem Report Changed the Investigation
The investigation took a major turn after police received the post-mortem report on June 22, 2026.
Doctors found several serious injuries, including:
- Fractured ribs
- Internal bleeding
- Multiple facial injuries
- Chest injuries
- Injuries to the legs
- Injuries to the private parts
Moreover, forensic experts concluded that these injuries did not match a fall from a cot that stood only about two feet high.
As a result, police suspected that someone had intentionally harmed the child.
Furthermore, witness statements reportedly contradicted the parents’ version of events. Therefore, investigators converted the case from an unnatural death into a murder investigation.
Why Police Suspect Murder
Investigators say infant falls from low furniture usually cause limited injuries around the point of impact.
However, Renuka suffered injuries across several parts of her body. Doctors also found fractured ribs and internal haemorrhaging. These findings suggested severe physical force rather than an accidental fall.
Consequently, investigators concluded that the available evidence did not support the family’s original explanation.
What Police Allege
According to investigators, Shekhappa and Vijayalakshmi allegedly assaulted the child during a domestic argument.
Police claim they kicked the infant and threw her onto the ground, knowing their actions could cause fatal injuries.
Following these findings, Avalahalli Police registered a case under Section 103(1) read with Section 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Police arrested Shekhappa soon afterward.
Meanwhile, Vijayalakshmi remains absconding, and search teams continue looking for her.
Timeline of the Case
| Date | Development |
|---|---|
| June 9, 2026 | Baby Renuka dies after being taken to hospital |
| June 9, 2026 | Father reports accidental fall; UDR registered |
| June 22, 2026 | Post-mortem contradicts accident claim |
| July 2026 | Police convert the case into murder |
| July 2026 | Shekhappa arrested; search for mother continues |
Investigation Continues
Police continue collecting forensic evidence and questioning witnesses.
Meanwhile, officers are trying to locate Vijayalakshmi to determine her exact role in the incident.
Authorities say the investigation remains active. They expect additional evidence and forensic findings to provide a clearer picture of what happened inside the family’s home.
Officials have urged anyone with relevant information to cooperate with investigators as the case progresses.