Tragedy in Panchkula: Seven from Dehradun Family Found Dead in Car, Suicide Pact Suspected

In a deeply tragic and shocking incident, seven members of a family from Dehradun were found dead inside a locked car parked in Sector 27, Panchkula. The incident is believed to have occurred during the night between Monday and Tuesday, sparking widespread concern and sorrow.

The family members—consisting of Praveen Mittal, aged 42, his parents, his wife, and their three children (two daughters and a son)—were discovered inside the vehicle, which was locked from within. Initial investigations strongly point towards a suicide pact as the cause of this heartbreaking event. According to police sources, a significant unpaid financial debt is believed to be a key factor that led the family to take this drastic step.

The family had reportedly traveled to Panchkula on Monday to attend a Hanuman Katha program organized at Bageshwar Dham. After the event, while returning to their hometown of Dehradun, they allegedly decided to end their lives. This tragic act appears to have been premeditated, as indicated by the recovery of a suicide note from the scene.

Locals who noticed the family struggling inside the car raised an alarm by contacting the emergency response system via the 112 helpline. The Police Control Room (PCR) immediately dispatched a team to the location. Upon arrival, law enforcement officials forcibly opened the doors of the vehicle, only to find the family members unconscious or lifeless. They promptly rushed the victims to a private hospital and Panchkula Civil Hospital, but all were declared dead on arrival.

The police crime scene team, forensic experts, and other officials meticulously examined the site, confirming the cause of death as suicide. The bodies have since been sent to the mortuary of a private hospital in Panchkula for post-mortem examinations.

High-ranking police officials, including Panchkula Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Himadri Kaushik and DCP Law & Order Amit Dahiya, visited the site to oversee the ongoing investigations. DCP Crime Amit Dahiya cautioned against jumping to premature conclusions, emphasizing that investigations were still underway. He also noted that authorities were attempting to contact the family’s relatives to complete the legal formalities, including the inquest.

This heartbreaking incident has drawn attention to the severe psychological and financial pressures that can compel individuals and families to take such tragic steps. The police are continuing their inquiry to gather all facts and provide clarity to the public and the bereaved family.

The community remains shaken by the loss, and the case highlights the need for greater awareness and support mechanisms for those facing severe financial distress. As the investigation proceeds, the police are also looking into all possible angles to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances leading up to the event.