Police are investigating after an Indian-origin family London flat fall left a couple and their nine-year-old son dead in South London.
Rakesh Pai, 47, his wife Aditi Paralkar, 46, and their son Sid died after falling from the balcony of their 36th-floor apartment in a 46-story building on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, in the U.K. Emergency services were called after witnesses reported that people had fallen from a height. All three were declared dead at the scene.
Indian-Origin Family London Flat Fall Under Investigation
Police have described the deaths as unexpected and have not announced an official cause of death. A police spokesperson said the deaths are being treated as unexpected, no other injuries were reported, and next-of-kin have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers.
The case has been referred to the coroner. The causes of death are expected to be established through an inquest.
Inquest Expected After South London Balcony Deaths
Local MP Neil Coyle told residents that police believed Sid’s serious health conditions may have been a factor in what he described as a “horrendous decision.” He also said some constituents witnessed the incident and that the child’s severe illnesses may have contributed to the family’s situation.
People who knew the couple said the family had traveled to India in 2020 seeking treatment for Sid and returned to the United Kingdom in 2025 after his condition did not improve.
Friends and people close to the family have questioned any suggestion that the deaths were a murder-suicide. One friend said Aditi had appeared to be struggling, while Rakesh, also known as Robin, seemed composed despite pressure linked to Sid’s illness. Another person close to the family said caring for Sid had taken a major toll on Aditi’s mental health.
A neighbor told police she had heard shouting and screaming from the apartment in the weeks before the deaths. Julian Morris, senior coroner for the London inner south area, said his office was assisting police where necessary.
The case remains under investigation, and the inquest is expected to determine the official causes of death.
