Mumbai family’s shock deaths: Watermelon theory weakens as forensic clues point to possible poisoning
The mysterious deaths of a family of four in Mumbai, initially blamed on an allegedly infected watermelon, have taken a dramatic turn after preliminary forensic findings reportedly pointed to possible poisoning, media reports said.
Investigators now suspect the summer fruit may not have been the real cause behind the tragedy that killed two parents and their teenage daughters within hours.
Family fell ill after late-night meal
Abdullah Dokadia, 45, who ran a mobile accessories shop, his wife Nasreen, 35, and daughters Ayesha, 16, and Zainab, 13, had hosted five relatives for dinner last Saturday, serving mutton pulao.
After the guests left unharmed, the family reportedly ate watermelon around 1 am. By 5 am, all four developed severe vomiting and diarrhoea — symptoms initially suggesting food poisoning.
They died within hours.
Forensic red flag: Organs turned green
According to sources, early forensic tests found that some organs, including the brain, heart and intestines, had turned green — an unusual sign that experts say does not match routine food poisoning.
Doctors examining the case reportedly believe the symptoms and internal findings suggest something more sinister.
Morphine found in victim’s body
Adding to the mystery, morphine — a powerful painkiller usually used in controlled medical settings — was allegedly detected in Abdullah Dokadia’s body.
Police are now investigating whether it came from prior treatment, accidental exposure, or foul play.
Watermelon not yet cleared — but not proven guilty
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration said no direct link between the deaths and the watermelon has been established so far.
Officials said conclusions will only be drawn after laboratory confirmation.
Police probe widens
Police have registered a case of accidental death and recorded statements from the relatives who attended the dinner and consumed the same pulao without falling sick.
Investigators are also examining whether the family had been under any stress and whether the watermelon may have been contaminated with an external toxic substance or adulterant.
The final chemical analysis report is awaited.
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