Weeks before the murder of her fiancé Ketan, Siya Goyal sent a Snapchat message to a friend saying, "This wedding isn't going to happen," according to police sources. The cryptic text has become a key piece of evidence in the investigation into Ketan's death, which occurred on July 2, 2026, in a suburb of Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Police investigation reveals premeditation
Mumbai Police have been probing the murder of Ketan, a 29-year-old software engineer, who was found stabbed to death in his apartment in Andheri West. The Snapchat message, sent on June 15, 2026, was discovered during a forensic examination of Siya's phone. Police officials stated that the message indicates possible prior knowledge or involvement in the crime. "The text suggests that Siya might have been aware that the wedding would not take place, possibly due to planned violence," said Deputy Commissioner of Police Rajesh Pandey.
Siya Goyal, 27, a marketing executive, was arrested on July 4, 2026, along with two other suspects, on charges of murder and conspiracy. The police have not yet disclosed the motive, but sources indicate that financial disputes and a strained relationship may have played a role. According to the police, Ketan had recently taken a large loan for the wedding, and Siya had expressed concerns about his mounting debts.
Details of the murder
Ketan was last seen alive on the night of July 1, 2026, returning home after a dinner with friends. The next morning, his body was discovered by his roommate, who alerted the authorities. The autopsy report revealed multiple stab wounds, with the cause of death being hemorrhagic shock. Police recovered a knife from the scene, which is believed to be the murder weapon.
Investigators tracked Siya's movements through CCTV footage and phone records, placing her near Ketan's apartment at the time of the murder. The Snapchat message, recovered from the cloud, was sent from Siya's account at 11:23 PM on June 15. "The timing of the message is significant, as it was sent just weeks before the murder, indicating premeditation," said a police spokesperson.
Family and community reactions
Ketan's family has expressed shock and grief over the incident. His mother, Sunita Sharma, told reporters, "We never imagined Siya could be involved. They seemed happy together. We want justice for our son." Siya's family has declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation.
The case has drawn widespread attention in Maharashtra, with many questioning how a seemingly normal relationship could turn violent. Friends of the couple described them as "perfect together" and noted no visible signs of trouble. However, some acquaintances mentioned that Siya had been increasingly stressed about wedding preparations and financial pressures.
Legal proceedings ahead
Siya and the two other accused, identified as Rohan Verma and Priya Singh, were produced before a magistrate court in Mumbai on July 5, 2026, and remanded to police custody until July 12. The police are seeking to recover additional evidence, including digital records and possible financial transactions linking the accused.
Legal experts suggest that the Snapchat message could be a crucial piece of evidence if it can be authenticated and linked to the crime. "Such messages can establish intent or foreknowledge, which is vital in conspiracy cases," said criminal lawyer Anjali Mehta. The prosecution will likely argue that the message demonstrates Siya's state of mind and her involvement in the plot.
The investigation is ongoing, with police examining call records and social media activity of all three suspects. They are also looking into whether the murder was motivated by financial gain or personal animosity. The case is expected to go to trial later this year.
