Burns Case in Kochi: Couple Set Ablaze by Neighbour, Husband Critical

A man and his wife were allegedly set on fire by their neighbor in Kochi, Kerala. The man remains critical with 60% burns, while his wife's condition is stable. The neighbor, who later died by hanging, had a long-standing feud with the couple over waste disposal and the installation of a CCTV camera in their property. The police have registered a case.

A disturbing incident unfolded in Kochi, Kerala, on July 18, 2025, when a man and his wife were allegedly set on fire by their neighbor. The couple, Christopher and Mary, were returning from a church festival when they were allegedly stopped by their neighbor, Williams Correya, who poured petrol over them and set them ablaze. The incident resulted in Christopher sustaining critical injuries with 60% burns, while Mary's condition remains stable.

The couple was rushed to a nearby hospital where Christopher remains in the intensive care unit, requiring immediate surgery. His condition is described as critical, with severe burns to his hands, chest, and thighs. Mary, on the other hand, is relatively stable and is admitted to the ward. The incident occurred around 8 p.m., and the couple was admitted to the hospital at 9.48 p.m. [1]

The police have registered a case against Williams, who was later found hanging in his house. The incident is believed to be a culmination of a long-standing feud between the couple and Williams over waste disposal and the installation of a CCTV camera in their property. The couple had reportedly lodged a police complaint against Williams for throwing waste into their compound, which led to the installation of the CCTV camera. This action seems to have exacerbated Williams' anger, leading to the tragic incident [1].

The incident has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the potential dangers of long-standing neighborhood disputes. The police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.

References:
[1] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/kerala/neighbour-sets-couple-on-fire-in-kochi-man-critical-wife-stable/article69830481.ece