A man and son died in separate incidents within a short span of time in Manasingh village under Mangalpur police station limits in Odisha’s Jajpur district. This prompted police to register two cases of unnatural death and launch an investigation.

According to police and local sources, Rasananda Panda allegedly died by suicide after learning about the death of his son, Steamer Panda, who operated a studio in Mangalpur market.

Preceded Studio Owner’s Death

Family members said the incident began after an employee working at Steamer Panda’s studio allegedly consumed poison on Friday night.

Stephen Panda, brother of the deceased, said, “He was at home at around 9.30 pm when he received information that one of his employees had consumed poison. He immediately rushed to the studio and contacted a doctor, who advised administering first aid. During that time, the employee was moving his hands and legs repeatedly and accidentally kicked Steamer in the chest.”

He added, “Later, Steamer complained of chest pain and was taken to hospital. Doctors advised an ECG examination, after which he was declared dead. We had not informed anyone about his death, but somehow my uncle came to know about it and later took his own life.”

Two Bodies Sent For Post-Mortem

Following Steamer Panda’s death, his father Rasananda Panda allegedly hanged himself after learning about the incident.

Both bodies were sent to the District Headquarters Hospital in Jajpur for post-mortem examination.

Police Investigation Underway

Local sarpanch Sisir Dhal said villagers were present since late Friday night to assist the family and complete legal formalities.

“We had gathered here from around 11.30 pm and went to the police station to file the necessary report for the post-mortem process. While we were there, we received information that Steamer’s father had also hanged himself,” Dhal said.

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Police registered two unnatural death cases at Mangalpur police station and stated that an investigation into the circumstances surrounding both deaths.