A chilling act of violence was thwarted in Kerala’s coastal Alappuzha district when an 18-year-old girl escaped a horrifying attempt on her life. On Tuesday afternoon, 57-year-old Jose, a neighbor with a violent past, allegedly stormed into the girl’s home armed with a can of petrol and a lighter, intent on setting her ablaze. The shocking incident has left the community reeling and sparked outrage over the accused’s unchecked aggression.
Police reports reveal Jose, who was out on bail for previously stabbing the girl’s father, entered the victim’s property shouting death threats. Alone at home, the teenager faced a nightmarish ordeal as Jose doused her with petrol. Displaying remarkable courage, she struck his hand, knocking the lighter to the ground, and fled to safety. “She called her mother, who alerted us immediately,” said an officer from Alappuzha South police station. Jose was arrested later that night after a swift manhunt.
The girl and her mother, speaking to local media, described Jose as a relentless menace. “Ever since his release on bail, he’s been threatening to kill our family,” the mother said, her voice trembling. The incident underscores a pattern of hostility, with the family living in fear of further attacks.
Also Read: Zubeen Garg Drowning Case: Police Nab Festival Organizer, Longtime Manager
Jose faces serious charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including attempt to murder, criminal trespass, and obscene acts. Booked under sections 296(b), 329(3), and 109(1), he remains in custody as investigations deepen. Authorities are probing whether his prior release on bail emboldened the attack, raising questions about judicial oversight.
The community, shaken by the brazen daylight assault, is demanding stricter action. “This could’ve been a tragedy,” a neighbor told reporters, urging tougher penalties for repeat offenders. The girl’s quick thinking averted disaster, but her family now seeks protection and justice. As Alappuzha grapples with this chilling episode, calls for enhanced community safety measures are growing louder, with locals rallying to support the traumatized family.
Also Read: Tamil YouTuber Felix Gerald Arrested for Spreading Misinformation on Karur Stampede