Lahore family death mystery solved, Police reveal …
LAHORE: Police have claimed to have solved the mystery surrounding the deaths of a US national and her three children in a private housing society in Lahore, saying forensic evidence indicates the woman fatally poisoned her children before taking her own life.
Addressing a press conference on Friday, Lahore DIG Investigation Zeeshan Raza said forensic findings and the investigation suggest the woman mixed potassium cyanide into ice cream and gave it to her three children on July 17 before consuming the poisoned dessert herself.
According to investigators, the woman had recently arrived in Lahore from the United States with her husband and children. Police said the investigation revealed she had been suffering from mental health problems and had allegedly searched online for methods of suicide before the incident.
The DIG further stated that investigators believe the woman also attempted to serve the poisoned ice cream to her husband, but he did not consume it.
Police said the investigation included forensic analysis, digital evidence and interviews with family members. Authorities also conducted a polygraph examination of the husband as part of the inquiry before concluding that he was not involved in the deaths.
During the investigation, police traced the source of the chemical allegedly used in the incident. Officials said the woman had arranged for the parcel containing the chemical to be delivered to a friend’s residence instead of her own address.
As part of the probe, police arrested two additional suspects, including the owner of an online chemical business and a delivery rider. Investigators allege the shop owner illegally sold potassium cyanide online and received Rs138,540 for the transaction.
Police said both suspects will face legal proceedings for their alleged role in supplying the hazardous chemical. Investigators added that a comprehensive case file is being prepared in coordination with prosecutors to ensure the accused are prosecuted under the relevant laws.
The case shocked the country after the woman and her three children were found dead under mysterious circumstances earlier this month. Authorities say the investigation relied on forensic evidence and digital records to reconstruct the sequence of events.
The incident has also renewed concerns about the online sale of highly toxic chemicals and highlighted the importance of stronger oversight, as well as greater awareness and access to mental health support for individuals experiencing severe psychological distress.