Retired doctor found murdered in Ahmedabad flat, family suspects estranged son

In a shocking incident that has sent shockwaves across the Satellite locality, a retired doctor was found murdered in his apartment in Vaibhav Tower, with preliminary investigation pointing towards his estranged son as the prime suspect.

The deceased, Dr Nareshkumar Tilwani, was found lying in a pool of blood inside his flat on Saturday afternoon, with a fatal stab wound to the neck. The complaint was lodged by his wife, Sheela Tilwani, who lives separately at Sheetal Park along with their daughter Ravina, citing the deeply strained relationship between the deceased and their son Varun Tilwani, aged 29.

Son lived in isolation, known for violent outbursts

According to Sheela’s statement recorded at Satellite police station, her son Varun had been living in isolation in the flat for the past seven years, refusing contact with the rest of the family. As per police, “He barely left his room, was frequently aggressive, and would often damage household furniture. He relied solely on food delivery apps, ordering parcels twice a day, and did not speak to any of us, including his father.”

Dr Tilwani, despite the fraught relationship, frequently visited the flat in Vaibhav Tower from his residence in Gandhinagar. On the evening of June 27, he arrived at the flat but was unable to enter, prompting him to call a locksmith to force open the locked door. He later spoke to his wife around 7.30 pm, and both she and her daughter visited him that night and stayed till about 10 pm.

The next day, June 28, when Dr Tilwani failed to show up for lunch and did not respond to repeated phone calls, Sheela grew anxious. She rushed to Vaibhav Tower around 1.30 pm, only to find the main door ajar, bloodstains at the entrance, and her husband lying unresponsive beside the bed, with clear signs of a violent assault.

Son missing, bloodstains found in his room

The family's distress was compounded when they found Varun’s room unlocked, but he was missing. Bloodstains were also discovered inside his room. The family immediately alerted emergency services and the police. The 108 ambulance arrived and declared Dr Tilwani dead at the scene.

Police officials confirmed that a case has been registered under Section 302 of the Indian Penal Code. “The nature of the injuries suggests use of a sharp weapon. Varun is currently absconding, and we are conducting raids at possible hideouts,” an officer from the Satellite police station.

A Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team has collected samples from the scene, including blood swabs, fingerprints, and the broken door lock. CCTV footage from the building is being reviewed to trace Varun’s movements.

Long-standing domestic discord

As per the complaint, the family had endured years of domestic turmoil. Varun stopped communicating with family and often grew violent. Despite his behaviour, the father regularly checked on him.

Varun, a former engineering student, reportedly left his studies mid-way and has since refused professional or social engagement. The police are now investigating whether he may have suffered from an undiagnosed mental health condition.

The body of Dr Tilwani was sent to the hospital for post-mortem examination. A police manhunt is underway for Varun Tilwani, who remains untraceable as of Monday afternoon.