Kozhikode: Mystery surrounds the death of a property trader whose car burst into flames at Madathil Mukku, near Chevayur, Kozhikode, with police finding a petrol container with fuel at the scene.

Initial assumptions suggested the vehicle caught fire following a collision with a wall. However, the container has significantly raised questions.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:00 am on Wednesday, resulting in the death of local resident C.P. Sudhakaran, who was trapped inside the burning vehicle. He had earlier departed from his home stating he was travelling to Koyilandy for business matters.

The recovery of the 5-litre container near the burnt-out car has intensified doubts over the circumstances, with police now examining potential lines of enquiry including suicide and murder.

An investigation led by the Medical College ACP is currently underway. Forensic examiners, fingerprint experts, and a police dog unit were deployed to inspect the site. Following the completion of initial procedures and an inquest, the remains will be transferred to Kozhikode Medical College Hospital.

Early reports indicated that the vehicle went out of control whilst coming down a steep slope, striking a wall before catching fire. However, investigators are also evaluating whether the vehicle was already alight prior to the impact. As part of the ongoing enquiries, officers are gathering CCTV footage from the area.

Local residents who rushed to the location after hearing the crash found the vehicle entirely engulfed in flames. Fire crews subsequently arrived to extinguish the blaze, but Sudhakaran was pronounced dead at the scene.