Pathanamthitta: A couple was charred to death in Vengal here on Friday at around 1 pm after their car caught fire. The deceased were identified as Raju Thomas (69) and his wife Laija (62), hailing from Thukalassery in Thiruvalla here.

After their preliminary investigations, the police suspected that the couple might have committed suicide by pouring fuel on the car and setting it ablaze after parking near a field. 

The burning car was spotted by the police, who were patrolling the area, who in turn immediately informed the Fire Force. However, their lives could not be saved.

The bodies have been sent to a hospital for further examination. The car was completely burnt. The identity of the deceased was confirmed with the help of the number plate during the investigation.

The local ward councilor told Mathrubhumi News that the couple did not have any financial problems, and that the death may have been due to stress. 

He added that he saw Raju three days ago, but there were no signs of sadness. The couple had been living in the country since returning from abroad.

Meanwhile,  a suicide note recovered during the investigation revealed that the couple had some family issues. 

(Attention: Suicide is not a solution to any problem. Those struggling with mental health issues should seek help from professionals. The 'Disha' helpline provides free counseling and support services. Dial toll-free helpline number: 1056 or 0471-2552056)