US-Returned Software Engineer Arrested for Allegedly Murdering Parents in Bengaluru Villa
BENGALURU: In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves through the city, a 33-year-old US-returned software engineer has been arrested on charges of murdering his parents at their upscale villa in Vignan Nagar, near HAL township, in east Bengaluru. The tragic event unfolded on Wednesday morning, stemming from what police describe as desperate attempts to raise funds for new business ventures.
Victims Identified as Retired Navy Captain and Dentist
The victims have been identified as Naveen Chandra Bhat, 60, a retired navy captain, and his wife Shyamala Bhat, 55, a practicing dentist. The couple resided in the Adarsh Vista residential complex, where they met their tragic end. Their son, Rohan Chandra Bhat, stands accused of the brutal crime.
Morning Stabbing Incident Followed Heated Arguments
According to preliminary police investigations, the incident occurred around 8 am on Wednesday following intense arguments between Rohan and his parents. Police reports indicate that Rohan repeatedly stabbed both his parents during the confrontation. The violence escalated from financial disputes that had been brewing for some time.
Neighbors Rush to Scene, Couple Declared Dead at Hospital
Alerted by the commotion, concerned neighbors rushed to the villa and found the couple seriously injured. They immediately shifted Naveen and Shyamala to Manipal Hospitals on Old Airport Road. Despite emergency medical attention, doctors declared both victims brought dead upon arrival.
Dr. Madhavi Nair, a neighbor who also works at Manipal Hospitals, filed the initial complaint with HAL police, setting the investigation in motion.
Accused's Background and Financial Pressures
Police investigations reveal that Rohan worked as a software engineer in the United States before returning to Bengaluru approximately three years ago. While details of his overseas employment and specific reasons for his return remain under investigation, authorities have uncovered troubling patterns in his behavior.
"Rohan, who is unmarried, was working on independent projects and wanted to scale his operations," explained a senior police officer. "He reportedly struggled with anxiety issues and found it increasingly difficult to raise capital for his conceived projects. This led him to pressure his parents for financial support, but the aged couple expressed helplessness, stating they were not in a position to meet his demands."
Escalating Tensions and Separate Living Arrangements
The financial disagreements sparked frequent quarrels between Rohan and his parents, eventually leading to his decision to move out. Some time ago, Rohan shifted to a rented accommodation in Varthur, living separately from his parents.
Police reports indicate that Rohan visited his parents' villa on Monday night, once again demanding money. "The fight escalated by Wednesday morning," the officer added, describing how the confrontation turned violent.
Police Investigation and Legal Proceedings
Police have taken Rohan into custody and produced him before a court. "We are yet to question him thoroughly," authorities stated. "His sister, who lives in the United States and has been informed of the tragedy, is expected to arrive in Bengaluru by Thursday."
The bodies have been shifted to Bowring Hospital, where autopsy procedures will be conducted after the daughter's arrival, as per family wishes and investigative protocols.
This tragic case highlights the extreme pressures some individuals face in startup environments and the devastating consequences when family disputes escalate beyond control. The investigation continues as police work to uncover all details surrounding this heartbreaking incident.
