The death of 29-year-old Augustine Chacko, a native of Layikkadu in Changanassery, has left his family shaken. Augustine, who was working in the UK, in Northern Ireland's Dungannon town, was found hanging in his apartment.

The family received news of his death early on Saturday, leaving them struggling to come to terms with the loss. Augustine was the elder son of Kurissumoottil Chacko and Garlin Chacko.

The exact cause of death remains unclear. However, the family was informed that Augustine may have died after being accidentally strangled in his apartment. According to preliminary information, a piece of cloth, possibly a curtain, was found wrapped around his neck.

"His friends became concerned when he did not turn up for work. They went to his apartment and tried calling him, but there was no response. They then informed the police, who broke open the door and found him hanging," said his brother, George Chacko. "We still do not have clarity on the circumstances surrounding his death," he added. 

It is yet to be confirmed when Augustine's body can be brought back to Kerala. "A final decision is expected only by tomorrow," George said. 

Augustine had moved to the UK three years ago and was employed at a care home in Northern Ireland. He was planning to return home by mid-January. After completing his graduation, he had earlier worked in Australia for a few years before returning to Kerala and later moving to the UK.

"I can’t think of any issues that could have led to this. He had no known personal problems. There were some financial concerns at home, but those had almost been resolved," George said, adding that Augustine had spoken to his mother just two days ago. "He sounded happy. We don’t know what went wrong."

Residents of Layikkadu remembered Augustine as a warm and kind person. "He was very well liked. The entire village is mourning his death," said Shyni Jojo, former ward member of Layikkadu, who said she had known him for many years and was deeply shocked by the news.