The tragic deaths of Artika Kumari and Latchman Krishna in Malolo, Nadi, have left their family and community in profound shock. On January 10, 2025, Ms. Kumari, aged 41, was found deceased inside their home, while Mr. Krishna, also 41, is believed to have committed suicide outside their residence. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, which reportedly involved domestic disputes leading to what appears to be a murder-suicide.

The couple’s nine-year-old daughter was reportedly present during a heated argument between her parents before the incident. Early the next morning, she was taken to a neighbor’s house by her father, which prompted her uncle, Rajesh Krishna, to check on them. Upon doing so, he was devastated to discover his twin brother’s lifeless body and Ms. Kumari inside the house.

Family members disclosed that Mr. Krishna had been released from police custody just a day before the incident, after Ms. Kumari filed a report against him for alleged assault. This turbulent backdrop has heightened the emotional turmoil surrounding the events leading to their tragic deaths. Rajesh expressed his sorrow, stating that he felt a profound loss in the absence of his twin brother, who had been facing personal struggles.

Artika Kumari’s sister, Aska, recounted their last conversation, where her sister had shared her marital difficulties, indicating a foreboding sense of what was to come. The shock of Ms. Kumari’s death has resonated deeply within her family, as they grapple with the grief of losing a beloved member.

Senior Superintendent of Police, Iakobo Vaisewa, confirmed ongoing investigations to ascertain the precise circumstances of this heartbreaking incident. In light of these tragic events, there is a growing call within the community for increased mental health awareness and support, as well as open discussions surrounding domestic conflicts, which could help prevent similar tragedies in the future.

This distressing incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of human relationships and the urgent need for communities to unite in support of one another during crises. There is hope that the loss of Artika Kumari and Latchman Krishna will foster greater awareness around mental health resources and the importance of intervention strategies to safeguard families in distress. Ultimately, it is vital for communities to come together and implement preventative measures that could avert such heartbreaking outcomes in the future.