Class 9 girl student found dead near drain in Sambalpur; Odisha police begin probe

A Class 9 student was found dead under suspicious circumstances near a drain in the Shanti Nagar area of Sambalpur on Wednesday night, prompting a police investigation into the sequence of events leading to her death.

The deceased minor was discovered lying inside a roadside drain along with her two-wheeler, a short distance from her residence.

Girl Found Unresponsive Near Home

According to preliminary information, local residents spotted the minor and her scooter fallen inside the drain early in the morning. Family members immediately shifted her to Sambalpur Sadar Hospital, where doctors declared her dead on arrival.

Police teams from Ainthapali Police Station reached the spot and carried out an on-site inspection before sending the body for post-mortem to VIMSAR, Burla.

Sambalpur SDPO Tofan Bag said the police have filed an initial report based on the apparent condition of the spot and the positioning of the two-wheeler.

“She was driving a two-wheeler that night. We found the vehicle next to her. It is likely that there was a mishap or accident that caused her to lose balance and fall. Accordingly, a report has been filed here at Ainthapali. We also visited the spot and investigated the scene,” he stated.

Family Yet to Comment

Sources informed that family members of the deceased have not provided any reaction regarding the incident so far. Police officials said they have questioned close relatives as part of the preliminary enquiry. The post-mortem report will determine whether the death resulted from an accidental fall or if any other factor was involved.

Reports added that the student had been living with her paternal grandfather. Her mother had reportedly taken her own life a few years ago, while her father died earlier in a road accident. Police confirmed that she has an aunt who resides outside Odisha.

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Cause of Death Not Yet Established

Officers said the circumstances surrounding the fall remain under verification. Investigators are assessing the condition of the scooter, the depth and structure of the drain, and the timeline of her movements prior to the incident. The police added that clarity on the cause of death will emerge after receiving the forensic and post-mortem findings.

Further details are expected once the autopsy report and scene examination assessments are completed.