A man was killed and a woman critically injured after they reportedly went through with what is believed to be a suicide pact at Kailasagiri in Visakhapatnam on Saturday night.

Morning walkers noticed the duo at 6 am on Sunday and called the police. While the man was found dead, the woman was rushed to a hospital where she is said to be battling for life.

The deceased was identified as Ch. Satyanarayana (26), while the injured woman was identified as Ramadevi (22), both natives of Veeraghattam mandal in Srikakulam district. Police learnt that they were neighbours, and that their families knew each other well.

Satyanarayana had moved to Hyderabad to pursue a coaching course. The woman took a job at a garment store in Gajuwaka a few days ago.

Reason unknown

According to Arilova Inspector B. Ashok Kumar, they are yet to confirm that the man and the woman were in a relationship. The duo had left separate suicide notes in which they apologised to their families for ending their life.

“The couple said in separate suicide notes that no one was responsible for their decision. They also requested their family members to look after their parents, but there was no mention of any reason behind their extreme step,” Mr. Ashok Kumar said.

He said the family members of the couple claimed that they were not aware of their relationship. Further investigation would reveal the reason behind the incident.

Arilova Police have registered a case and an investigation is on. Those who are in distress are requested to contact the helpline 100.