Karnataka woman killed at bus stand; police launch manhunt for relative
BANTWAL: A 24-year-old woman was fatally attacked at the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus stand in Bantwal on Thursday evening, police said. The deceased, identified as Lavanya, a resident of Kakkepadavu village in Dakshina Kannada district, worked at a private nursing home in Kalladka.
According to police, the incident took place around 6 pm when Lavanya was waiting for a bus. A man, identified as Chetan, a distant relative of the victim, allegedly approached her with a machete hidden in his bag. Police said Lavanya tried to flee upon noticing the weapon, but Chetan chased her and attacked her repeatedly before fleeing the scene, leaving the weapon behind.
Police have registered a case and launched a search for the accused, who is reported to be on the run. Preliminary investigations suggest that the attack may have been motivated by Chetan's alleged resentment from a previous rejection of his romantic advances, though police are verifying all angles.
Lavanya was declared dead on arrival at a nearby hospital. The body has been sent for postmortem examination. Local authorities have increased patrolling in the area and appealed to the public to remain calm.
The incident has sparked concern among commuters about safety at public transport hubs. District officials have assured that security measures will be reviewed.
