As many as five skeletal remains, suspected to be of members of the same family, were found inside a house in Karnataka's Chitradurga district.
The family lived an entirely secluded life and was grappling with severe health issues, relatives told police.
The family was last seen around July 2019 and their residence remained locked.
Roughly two months ago, during a morning stroll, locals noticed the main wooden door had been broken, yet the police were not notified.
Further examination of the spot indicated multiple break-ins and ransacking inside the house.
As the police arrived at the spot, they found four skeletons (two on beds and two on the floor) in one room, while another skeleton was found in another room.
Meanwhile, the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team from Devengere and Scene of Crime Officers (SOCOs) were summoned to collect evidence and security was tightened around the house.
As per assessments based on statements from acquaintances, relatives, and family history, the remains were suspected to be of an octogenarian couple, their elderly son and daughter, and their 57-year-old grandson.
However, the identities of the dead will be confirmed following forensic reports.
Further investigations into the case were underway.
