In a heartbreaking incident that has sent shockwaves across the country, seven members of a family from Dehradun were found dead inside a car parked in Panchkula, Haryana late Monday night. Police officials suspect a mass suicide triggered by deep financial distress.
The deceased have been identified as Praveen Mittal, 42, along with his elderly parents, wife, and three young children two daughters and a son. The family had reportedly traveled from Dehradun to Panchkula to attend a religious event at Bageshwar Dham, and were on their return journey when the tragedy occurred.
Local residents noticed the parked vehicle outside a house and became suspicious after observing no movement inside. Upon discovering the unresponsive occupants, they immediately alerted emergency services. Police and medical responders rushed the family to Ojas Hospital and Civil Hospital Sector 6, where all seven were declared dead on arrival. Panchkula Deputy Commissioner of Police Himadri Kaushik stated, “We received information that six people were brought to Ojas Hospital, and one to the Civil Hospital. All have been declared dead. Preliminary findings point toward a case of suicide.”
According to officials, a suicide note was recovered from the scene. While the contents have not yet been made public, early reports indicate that the family was under severe financial pressure and burdened by debt, which may have driven them to take this extreme step. Senior police officers, including DCP Law and Order Amit Dahiya, have initiated a thorough investigation. “We are collecting all possible forensic and scientific evidence to validate the circumstances,” added DCP Kaushik. The bodies have been moved to the mortuary of a private hospital, and autopsies are being conducted. Police will release further details after forensic and toxicology reports are finalized.
Neighbors and relatives described the Mittals as a quiet, respectful family who had never expressed any distress publicly. Their sudden demise has left their community in shock and mourning. With three children among the deceased, the incident has sparked renewed concerns about mental health support and the growing burden of financial debt among middle-class families in India. The case has also highlighted the need for stronger public awareness and access to mental health services. In response to this tragic loss, authorities have shared helpline numbers for those struggling with emotional or financial crises.
