Refused money, lost her life: Wayanad teen held for killing 85-year-old woman

Wayanad: A 17-year-old boy has been arrested for the alleged murder of an 85-year-old woman who was found dead in her home at Vaippadi near Kottathara in Kerala's Wayanad district, police said on Tuesday.

The victim, identified as Pathu, lived alone in her residence and was discovered dead on the evening of May 24. Following the discovery, her body was sent to Mananthavady Medical College for a post-mortem examination.

Investigators said the autopsy confirmed that the elderly woman had been murdered. The examination reportedly revealed fractures to her neck bones, multiple injuries across her body, and broken ribs on the left side.

According to police, the accused allegedly entered the woman's house and demanded money. When she refused, he is believed to have assaulted and strangled her inside her bedroom.

The teenager was apprehended after an intensive investigation and has since been produced before the Juvenile Justice Board.

Police said the case initially presented no clear leads, prompting the formation of a special investigation team headed by the Kalpetta Deputy Superintendent of Police under the direction of Wayanad District Police Chief Arun K. Pavithran.

The team employed scientific investigation techniques, including fingerprint analysis and assistance from a dog squad, eventually identifying and tracing the suspect.

Officials further revealed that the juvenile had previously been linked to several incidents involving theft, harassment of women and intimidation of elderly residents for money.

Multiple complaints had reportedly been lodged against him, and reports regarding his conduct had earlier been submitted to the Juvenile Justice Board in February 2025 and January 2026.

Police said further proceedings in the case are underway.