Tirunelveli crime latest update: 18-Year-Old Student Kills Father
6/26/2025


An 18-year-old college student in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, has been arrested for allegedly murdering his father following a heated argument over skipping classes. The shocking incident has left the community in disbelief. Read the full details here.
Tragic Incident in Tirunelveli: Son Murders Father Over College Irregularity Issue
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, the Tirunelveli city police have arrested an 18-year-old college student for allegedly murdering his father following a family dispute over academic discipline. The crime took place in the early hours of Wednesday, shaking the quiet neighborhood of Ashoka Puram in Melakarunkulam, Tamil Nadu.
Background of the Victim and Accused
The deceased, identified as Mariyappan (45), was a hardworking mason who lived with his wife Sakunthala, son M Thangapandi, and two daughters. Thangapandi, a second-year student at a government-aided college in Palayamkottai, was reportedly irregular to college and often returned home late, which had become a repeated point of conflict between father and son.
The Night of the Crime
On Tuesday night, the tension between the two reached a boiling point. A heated argument broke out after Mariyappan once again reprimanded Thangapandi for his irresponsible behavior. According to police and family sources, this was not the first such quarrel, but sadly, it was the last.
In the early hours of Wednesday, while Mariyappan was asleep, an enraged Thangapandi allegedly took a rock and fatally smashed his father’s head. He then fled the scene, leaving his family in utter shock.
Family’s Shocking Discovery
Mariyappan’s cries woke up Sakunthala and the daughters, who rushed to the scene only to find him lying unconscious and bleeding profusely. They immediately alerted the Melapalayam police, who arrived at the scene, conducted preliminary investigations, and sent the body to Tirunelveli Medical College Hospital for a post-mortem examination.
Police Action and Arrest
The Tirunelveli police launched a manhunt and successfully traced Thangapandi near the new bus stand in Tirunelveli later that morning. He was allegedly attempting to hide and flee the city. He was promptly arrested and taken into custody for further interrogation and legal proceedings.
Impact on the Community
The brutal murder has sent shockwaves throughout the Tirunelveli district. Neighbors and locals expressed disbelief, describing Mariyappan as a dedicated father and a respected worker. The tragic incident has sparked discussions about rising youth aggression, emotional instability, and the urgent need for mental health awareness and family counseling in educational institutions.
Key Takeaways:
Location: Ashoka Puram, Melakarunkulam, Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu
Victim: Mariyappan (45), mason
Accused: M Thangapandi (18), second-year college student
Motive: Repeated scolding for skipping college
Action Taken: Arrested near Tirunelveli New Bus Stand
Police Station: Melapalayam Police
Conclusion
This tragic incident highlights the importance of communication, emotional support, and early intervention in family and youth issues. As society grapples with evolving challenges in parenting and education, it is essential to create safe spaces for children and parents to resolve differences without violence.
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