Chennai: Class 5 student found dead at home; police probe exam-related distress angle

Chennai Police are investigating the death of a nine-year-old Class 5 student. The student who studied at a private school in Mylapore was found dead at her home in Chennai's Alwarpet on the night of July 29. It was when family members found the child unresponsive inside her room; she was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors declared her dead on arrival, DT Next reports. Police have registered a case and sent the body to a government hospital for a post-mortem examination.

Her father works at a private firm, while her mother is a teacher at a private school. Preliminary investigations are examining whether the child had been distressed over her recent examination performance. According to police, the school had asked parents to sign an evaluated answer sheet before it was returned to the class teacher. Investigators are verifying the sequence of events leading up to the incident and have not reached any final conclusions.

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Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, and further action will be taken based on the post-mortem report and other evidence.

If you know someone – friend or family member – at risk of suicide, please reach out to them. Those in distress or having suicidal thoughts or tendencies could seek help and counselling by calling 9820466726 or visiting AASRA’s official website or can call iCALL on 9152987821. Here are some more helpline numbers of suicide prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families.