Gnana Prakash, 23, was taken into custody after a midnight raid on the Vijila household in Mudalur village, Tuticorin district, on Friday. The assault began around 1 a.m., when he forced his way past the locked door and attacked the family.
The 48‑year‑old victim, Mary Vijila, was hacked to death, while her husband Muthukrishnan, 50, their 12‑year‑old son, and 15‑year‑old daughter sustained severe lacerations. Both the father and son are in critical condition and have been shifted to Tirunelveli Government Medical College Hospital.
Police say Prakash was well acquainted with the family; the couple had previously warned him against pursuing their eldest daughter, who had cut ties with him. Superintendent of Police R. Shiva Prasad noted that the girl's rejection was the likely trigger for the violent intrusion.
The brutal act has prompted a flurry of political condemnation. DMK MP MK Kanimozhi condemned the state’s failure to protect women and children, accusing the ruling party of creating a climate that puts families at risk. The government has yet to issue a formal response.
Investigators are currently conducting forensic analysis at the scene and will present the evidence to the magistrate next month. The accused remains in police custody awaiting trial.