Patna Medical Student Death Probe Intensifies with Additional Blood Samples
The special investigation team (SIT) probing the alleged rape and death of a medical aspirant in Patna has significantly expanded its forensic examination by collecting blood samples from five additional individuals who had contact with the victim before her tragic demise. This development marks a crucial phase in the ongoing investigation that has gripped the nation's attention.
Expanding the Suspect Pool and Forensic Analysis
According to official sources, these five individuals hail from both Patna and Jehanabad districts and are currently undergoing intensive questioning by investigative authorities. The forensic science laboratory (FSL) has successfully prepared a comprehensive DNA profile from semen traces discovered on the clothing the victim wore during her hospitalization, providing concrete evidence of sexual assault in this distressing case.
The investigative team is now conducting meticulous DNA matching procedures against all current suspects. To date, forensic samples have been collected from approximately nineteen to twenty people connected to the case, representing a broad spectrum of individuals who had potential access or connection to the victim during the critical period.
Comprehensive Investigation Methodology
The SIT has adopted a multi-pronged approach to reconstruct the events leading to the victim's death. Investigators are thoroughly examining the young woman's eleven-day travel history, detailed call records, mobile tower location data, and comprehensive digital search history from her devices. This digital forensic analysis aims to create a complete timeline of her movements, interactions, and visits to key locations during her final days.
In a significant development on Wednesday, the investigation team conducted raids at the ancestral home of arrested building owner Manish Kumar Ranjan in Kharka village, Makhdumpur, located in Jehanabad district. During this operation, authorities questioned multiple family members and neighbors to gather additional information and context about the suspect's background and possible connections to the crime.
Victim's Family Cooperation and Investigation Focus
An official closely involved with the investigation revealed that the probe currently centers on two critical aspects: DNA matching results and comprehensive evidence collection to positively identify the accused individuals. The investigative team has shown all collected evidence to the victim's family members, who are now fully cooperating with authorities after initial reservations about the investigation's direction.
"We are systematically waiting for the DNA results and other crucial medical reports to reach definitive conclusions in this case," the official stated, emphasizing the methodical, evidence-based approach being taken by the SIT to ensure a thorough and accurate investigation.
Case Background and Medical Findings
The minor victim, originally from Jehanabad district, was discovered unconscious in her locked room at a girls' hostel in Patna on January 6. Despite medical intervention, she succumbed to her injuries on January 11 at a private hospital after remaining in a coma for several days. Initial speculation suggested a possible sleeping pill overdose, but subsequent medical examination revealed a much more sinister reality.
The post-mortem report confirmed sexual assault through multiple indicators:
- Genital trauma consistent with violent assault
- Multiple bruises across the body
- Nail abrasions suggesting defensive actions
- Resistance marks indicating struggle
The forensic science laboratory's detection of semen on the victim's clothing fundamentally transformed the case from a suspected overdose to an alleged rape-murder investigation, prompting the formation of the special investigation team and the comprehensive forensic examination currently underway.
Current Status of Forensic Testing
The individuals who have undergone DNA testing include:
- Five family members of the victim
- Six youths spotted near the hostel on January 5-6
- The hostel owner
- Arrested building owner Manish Kumar Ranjan
- Ranjan's teenage son
- Six additional men connected to the hostel operations
These individuals underwent DNA testing procedures at Gardanibagh Hospital as part of the systematic elimination and identification process being conducted by investigative authorities. The addition of five more individuals for blood sample collection indicates the investigation continues to expand its scope as new information emerges.
