Lohagad Fort Murder Case: Pune Police Uncover Alleged Murder Plot Behind Trekking Death
A shocking twist has emerged in the Pune Tracker Murder Case after police arrested a young woman and her alleged boyfriend for the death of her fiancé, a businessman who initially appeared to have died in a trekking accident.
The victim, 26-year-old Ketan Vishal Agrawal, was found dead after falling into a deep gorge near Lohagad Fort in Maharashtra on June 18. What was first treated as an accidental death has now turned into a murder investigation, with police alleging that the fall was the result of a planned conspiracy.
Authorities arrested Ketan’s fiancée, 20-year-old Siya Goyal, and 22-year-old Chetan Chaudhary, accusing them of plotting and carrying out the crime together.
What Happened on the Day of the Incident?
According to investigators, Ketan had gone to Lohagad Fort with Siya to celebrate her upcoming birthday. The couple reached the popular trekking destination on the morning of June 18.
Shortly after arriving, Ketan reportedly fell into a gorge estimated to be around 400 feet deep. At the time, Siya informed police that Ketan had been taking photographs in strong winds when he lost his balance and slipped.
Rescue teams, local residents, and police personnel launched a search operation and recovered Ketan’s body later that day. Based on Siya’s statement and the circumstances initially presented, authorities registered an accidental death report.
However, investigators soon began noticing inconsistencies in the sequence of events.
Lavish Wedding Plans Raised Questions
As police examined the case more closely, they learned that Ketan and Siya were scheduled to marry later this year in a grand ceremony.
The wedding preparations had reportedly already begun, with a palace venue booked in Udaipur, Rajasthan. Media reports indicate that arrangements included two chartered private aircraft for guests and an estimated wedding budget of around ₹17 crore.
Investigators found it unusual that a relationship heading toward such an elaborate wedding could suddenly end in a tragic accident without further scrutiny.
Police Allege Secret Relationship Led to Conspiracy
During the investigation, police discovered that Siya was allegedly involved in a relationship with Chetan Chaudhary, a resident of Pune’s Kondhwa area.
According to investigators, Siya did not want to go ahead with her marriage to Ketan and viewed him as an obstacle to her relationship with Chetan. Police believe the pair then began planning Ketan’s murder.
Authorities allege that Siya persuaded Ketan to visit Lohagad Fort and later coordinated with Chetan to meet at the location. Investigators claim that the two then pushed Ketan into the gorge and attempted to make the incident appear accidental.
Arrests Follow Crime Branch Investigation
The case took a decisive turn when the local Crime Branch detained Chetan on suspicion and questioned him extensively. Police say information gathered during the interrogation helped uncover the alleged conspiracy.
Following further investigation, Siya was also taken into custody.
Based on a complaint filed by Ketan’s father, Vishal Agrawal, police registered a case under charges related to murder and criminal conspiracy. Both accused are now facing legal proceedings as investigators continue gathering evidence.
Forensic Examination and Wider Probe Underway
Police officials have stated that the investigation remains ongoing. Forensic experts are examining evidence to establish the exact sequence of events and strengthen the prosecution’s case.
Authorities are also trying to determine whether any additional individuals may have had knowledge of or involvement in the alleged plot.
The Pune Tracker Murder Case has attracted widespread attention because of the dramatic shift from what appeared to be a trekking accident to an alleged pre-planned murder. The case has also sparked public discussion about trust, relationships, and the challenges investigators face when determining whether a death is accidental or intentional.
About Lohagad Fort
The incident occurred at Lohagad Fort, one of Maharashtra’s most visited historical sites. The fort is closely associated with the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and forms part of a group of heritage forts recognized for their historical significance.
Known for its steep cliffs, trekking routes, and panoramic views, the fort attracts thousands of visitors every year. The tragedy has renewed attention on safety and security at popular trekking destinations across the region.
Police are expected to present additional findings as the investigation progresses and forensic reports become available.