Salem, Apr 18: In a shocking incident that unfolded in full public view, a 20-year-old youth stabbed a college girl and attempted suicide by slitting his own throat at Salem’s old bus stand on Wednesday morning.According to police sources, the accused, Mohanapriyan, hails from a village near Attayampatti and is an ITI graduate who is currently unemployed. He had developed an acquaintance with the 21-year-old victim, a third-year undergraduate student at the Government Women’s Arts and Science College in Gorimedu, through social media.
Reportedly, Mohanapriyan expressed his romantic interest in the girl via Instagram. However, she turned down his proposal, pointing out their age difference. Following the rejection, she had cut off all communication with him. Undeterred, Mohanapriyan began stalking her daily at the old bus stand, where she boarded her college bus.
On Wednesday, he intercepted her at the bus stand and again insisted that she accept his love. When she refused firmly, an argument ensued. In a sudden fit of rage, Mohanapriyan pulled out a knife and stabbed the girl in the neck and abdomen.
Bystanders were left horrified as the girl collapsed, bleeding profusely. Before help could arrive, Mohanapriyan turned the knife on himself and slit his throat in an apparent suicide attempt.
Both were rushed by the Salem Town Police to the Government Mohan Kumaramangalam Medical College Hospital, where they are currently undergoing treatment. Police said that preliminary investigations revealed the girl’s parents had recently arranged her marriage with a relative, which may have triggered the violent outburst.
A case has been registered and further investigations are underway, the police added.