Bantwal bus stand murder: Accused arrested, hospitalised after allegedly consuming poison

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Jul 17, 2026: Police have arrested Chetan, the prime accused in the brutal daylight murder of a young woman, Lavanya, at the KSRTC bus stand in B.C. Road, Bantwal, on Thursday evening. He was traced and taken into custody within 24 hours of the crime.

According to police, Chetan was apprehended at Pacchanady in Vamanjoor near Mangaluru. As he had allegedly consumed poison before his arrest, he was shifted to a government hospital for treatment and medical examination. Police said further details of the investigation would be shared later.

Lavanya (25), a resident of Kakyapadavu in Bantwal, worked at a private nursing home in Kalladka.

The incident took place at around 5.30 pm on Thursday. After completing her work, Lavanya had boarded a government bus from B.C. Road to return home. Police said Chetan boarded the bus, allegedly dragged her out, and repeatedly attacked her with a machete in full public view.

Despite attempting to flee, Lavanya was unable to escape and collapsed after sustaining severe injuries. Bystanders rushed her to the government hospital, where doctors declared her dead.

Following the attack, Chetan fled the scene. Police said he is a relative of the victim. Preliminary investigations suggest the murder was allegedly motivated by Lavanya’s refusal to resume a relationship with him.

According to her family, Lavanya and Chetan had been in a relationship about four years ago but had later separated for undisclosed reasons. They alleged that despite the breakup, Chetan continued to harass her and repeatedly pressured her to reconcile.

Eyewitnesses said the two had an argument shortly before the attack, after which Chetan allegedly carried out the fatal assault. Police are continuing their investigation.