Idukki: One person was killed and another injured after a verbal dispute escalated into a violent altercation at Kambippalam. The deceased has been identified as Vincent (45), a resident of Kiliyaraputhenpura. 

The incident happened on Wednesday night at Kambippalam in Karimannoor. Police have taken Binu (35) of Marampara Kappilamkudy into custody in connection with the case.

According to the police, the clash broke out following an argument fueled by alcohol. Vincent, a native of Ezhumuttam who had come to Kambippalam, reportedly got into a quarrel with Binu. The altercation continued at Binu’s residence, where he allegedly attacked Vincent with a sharp weapon.

Vincent sustained a deep injury to his neck, while a migrant worker present at the scene was also seriously wounded. Both were rushed to a private hospital in Muthalakodam, where Vincent succumbed to his injuries. The migrant worker was later shifted to the Medical College Hospital in Kolenchery in critical condition.

Police said Binu fled the spot after the attack but was later arrested. A few of his friends were also taken into custody for questioning. The exact motive behind the murder remains unclear.

Vincent’s body has been moved to the Thodupuzha hospital mortuary, where postmortem procedures will be carried out today. The deceased was employed at a bakery in Thodupuzha.