The histopathology report in the deaths of four members of the Dokadia family in Mumbai’s Pydhonie area has confirmed signs of zinc phosphide poisoning. According to the forensic findings, greenish discolouration was found in the liver and kidney samples of the deceased family members. The report stated that such greenish colouring is a significant indication of zinc phosphide poisoning, which is commonly associated with rat poison consumption, reported ABP Majha.
The four members of the Dokadia family died within hours on April 26. According to information, the family members started feeling unwell after eating watermelon late at night. Symptoms reportedly included vomiting, dizziness and severe stomach pain.
Earlier forensic examinations had already detected traces of zinc phosphide in the bodies of the deceased as well as in watermelon samples collected from the house, prompting police to investigate the case from both murder and suicide angles.
The histopathology report prepared by Sir JJ Hospital has now been handed over to the police, according to ABP Majha. However, investigators have not yet reached a conclusion on the nature of the FIR to be registered in the case.
Meanwhile, following the deaths, an Accidental Death Report (ADR) was registered at Sir JJ Marg Police Station. During the investigation, officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) collected samples of food items, drinking water and a half-cut watermelon found in the refrigerator for examination.
According to officials, the FDA report did not find any evidence of adulteration in the food items. However, the FSL report confirmed the presence of zinc phosphide in the watermelon sample. Police sources said no further forensic reports are pending in the case.
Despite zinc phosphide being found in both the bodies and the watermelon sample, officials said the final medical opinion regarding the exact cause and manner of death is still awaited.
The police will now submit the FSL report to experts at Sir JJ Hospital for detailed analysis. A panel comprising forensic specialists and senior doctors from multiple departments will study the findings.
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The expert team is expected to examine the nature of the poisoning, symptoms experienced by the victims, the speed at which their condition deteriorated and whether any underlying medical conditions contributed to the deaths.
What Happened to the Dokadia Family?
According to the investigation, the Dokadia family consumed watermelon on the night of April 25. Soon afterwards, all four members reportedly developed symptoms including vomiting, dizziness and abdominal pain.
Their condition worsened on April 26, and both daughters were found unconscious. The family was rushed to Sir JJ Hospital, where one daughter was declared dead on arrival. The second daughter died a few hours later, while the parents also passed away shortly afterwards. The incident has raised several unanswered questions, and the police investigation is continuing.