UMVA has learned that a family of three, including a young boy with a terminal health condition, tragically fell to their deaths from the 36th-floor balcony of their luxury apartment in south London.
Rakesh Pai, 47, Aditi Paralkar, 46, and their son, Sid, plunged 400ft to their deaths on the morning of May 27, leaving behind a trail of shock and grief. The family had been struggling to cope with Sid's debilitating condition, which had left him partially disabled and unable to speak.
Sources close to the family revealed that Aditi Paralkar had been battling depression and other mental health issues as a result of her son's ill health. The pressure of caring for Sid, combined with her demanding job as a consultant, had taken a devastating toll on her mental wellbeing.
The family had previously moved to India in search of better medical care for Sid, but ultimately returned to the UK after doctors were unable to help him. Friends described the couple as "wonderful" and "shocked" by the tragic events that unfolded.
A resident in the building reported hearing "shouting and screaming" consistently for two weeks prior to the incident, suggesting a desperate cry for help that went unanswered. The circumstances surrounding their deaths are still under investigation, but authorities believe it was a deliberate act.
The Metropolitan Police have confirmed that the deaths are being treated as "unexpected" and are investigating the incident. The community is in shock, and tributes have been pouring in for the family.
For those struggling with mental health issues or emotional distress, support is available through organizations like the Samaritans.
