Tragic Death Toll Rises to Eight in Kalamassery Blasts as 76-Year-Old Woman Succumbs to Injuries

A devastating turn of events unfolded as Lilly John, a 76-year-old woman from Idukki’s Vandamattom, succumbed to severe burn injuries inflicted during the Kalamassery blasts. The tragic incident occurred during a Jehovah’s Witnesses gathering on October 29, resulting in over 50 people injured and eight fatalities. Lilly’s demise follows her husband, KA John, who had also lost his life due to blast-related injuries. The perpetrator, Dominic Martin, claiming to be an estranged member of Jehovah’s Witnesses, surrendered to the police and faces charges under various sections, including murder, the Explosive Substances Act, and the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA).

The Kalamassery explosion has left a community in grief, prompting authorities to invoke stringent legal measures against Dominic Martin. The incident has sparked concerns about security during public gatherings and the need for heightened vigilance to prevent such tragic events in the future. Investigations into the motives and circumstances surrounding the blasts are ongoing, with the community grappling with the aftermath of this unforeseen tragedy.