A Crime That Shattered Peace in Vijayawada
The usually calm neighborhoods of Bhavanipuram and Urmila Nagar in Vijayawada woke up to horror in the first week of October 2025. Early one morning, residents noticed stray dogs gathering near a deserted spot close to a private school. When locals went to investigate, they made a discovery that would haunt the city for weeks — a severed human head and hands lying near the bushes.
Soon after, police received another alert: a torso wrapped in a plastic sheet was found floating in a nearby drainage canal. The scattered body parts hinted at something more sinister than an accidental death. The victim was later identified as 75-year-old Pothuri Vijaya Lakshmi, a retired schoolteacher known in her neighborhood for her kindness and simplicity.
🕵️♂️ The Family Connection That Shocked Investigators
The case took an unexpected and heartbreaking turn when the investigation pointed inward — toward Vijaya Lakshmi’s own family. After tracing CCTV footage and call data, police zeroed in on her nephew, V. Hanuman (54), and his 16-year-old son. HHanuman initially tried to feign innocence, claiming he had not seen his aunt recently. However, inconsistencies in his statements, along with suspicious late-night movements captured on cameras near the dump sites, led police to interrogate him more deeply. UUnder pressure, Hanuman eventually confessed — and the truth was more horrifying than anyone could imagine. He revealed that he and his teenage son had planned the murder, killed her inside their home in Urmila Nagar, and cut the body into multiple pieces to hide the crime.
💀 Inside the Murder: Chilling Details of the Crime
According to the confession and forensic findings, Hanuman invited his aunt to his home under the pretext of a casual visit. Once there, he reportedly sedated her, ensuring she could not scream or resist. After she became unconscious, he allegedly strangled her to death. Inn a desperate attempt to erase all evidence, Hanuman and his son used sharp tools to dismember the body. The crime was executed with terrifying precision, showing that the act had been premeditated rather than spontaneous. Affter dismembering her, they packed the parts in plastic bags and gunny sacks. Over several hours that night, they dumped the remains across different locations in the city — near schools, in canals, and at isolated corners. Their goal was to mislead investigators by making it appear as though the body parts belonged to different victims.
⚖️ The Dark Motive Behind the Killing
Investigations revealed that Hanuman’s motive was driven by deep resentment and personal grudges. He blamed his aunt for interfering in his marriage, claiming she had created misunderstandings between him and his wife. Poolice also suspect property disputes played a role, as Vijaya Lakshmi had inherited family assets that Hanuman wanted control over. The toxic mix of anger, ego, and greed led to a brutal act that destroyed not only a life but an entire family’s future.
What disturbed authorities the most was that Hanuman had dragged his teenage son into the crime. Instead of guiding his child toward morality and education, he made him a participant in a heinous act of violence — a decision that will scar both their lives forever.
🔬 How the Police Solved the Case
Vijayawada Police Commissioner formed two Special Investigation Teams (SITs) to handle the case. Forensic experts examined the blood traces found at Hanuman’s house, which matched the victim’s DNA. Police seized knives, plastic sheets, gloves, and cleaning chemicals — all used during the crime. Usiing mobile tower triangulation, police tracked Hanuman’s movements across the city on the night of the murder. His and his son’s presence near each dump site provided conclusive evidence.
Within days, both were arrested and charged under Section 302 (murder), 201 (destruction of evidence), and other sections of the Indian Penal Code. The father was remanded to judicial custody, while the son was sent to a juvenile home under the Juvenile Justice Act.
💔 Public Outrage and Media Reaction
The murder became a national headline within hours of its discovery. Social media was filled with anger, disbelief, and sorrow. People couldn’t fathom how family members could commit such a gruesome crime. News channels called it one of the most barbaric murders in Andhra Pradesh’s history.
Psychologists and social commentators weighed in, calling it a symptom of moral decay and emotional isolation within families. Many pointed out how unresolved anger and lack of communication can turn ordinary people into criminals. Civiic groups in Vijayawada even held candlelight marches demanding justice for Vijaya Lakshmi and stricter laws against domestic murders. It became a painful reminder that violence often begins at home — hidden behind closed doors.
🧠 Lessons from the Vijayawada Murder Case
This case is not just about a crime; it’s a reflection of how fragile human relationships have become. When ego and resentment replace empathy, even family bonds can turn deadly. The involvement of a minor highlights how parental influence shapes morality — both good and bad. Counssellors stress that families must seek mental health help and mediation before conflicts escalate. Communication, emotional intelligence, and legal awareness can prevent tragedies like this from repeating.
🚨 hat Lies Ahead The trial is expected to proceed in a fast-track court due to the public outrage.outrage. The police have completed the charge sheet and submitted forensic reports. If convicted, Hanuman could face life imprisonment or the death penalty. The minor’s case will be handled separately, focusing on rehabilitation and psychological treatment.
As Vijayawada slowly returns to normalcy, the shadows of this gruesome murder continue to haunt its streets. For many, the case stands as a grim warning that evil can sometimes wear a familiar face.