A 37-year-old man, who was estranged from his wife, allegedly barged into an HDFC Bank branch premises in Kilpauk and attacked her with a sharp weapon on Saturday evening.
The victim, Rebecca, 28, of Perambur, has been working as a cashier at the bank for the past six months, the police said.
She married Satheesh in 2017, and the couple has a daughter. Due to marital disputes, the couple separated around two years ago, after which Satheesh lived with their daughter.
Suicide attempt
In July 2025, Satheesh allegedly slit his daughter’s throat and killed her before attempting to take his own life within the limits of St. Thomas Mount police station.
The police rescued him, registered a murder case, and arrested him. He had been lodged in prison in connection with the case.
Satheesh was released from prison last week. On Saturday, at around 6.25 p.m., while Rebecca was working at the bank, he allegedly entered the premises carrying a knife and a can of petrol. He attacked her with the knife, causing injuries to her head and left hand.
People present at the bank hit Satheesh with an iron chair before restraining him. They alerted the police, who took him to the police station.
‘In critical condition’
Rebecca was taken to Kilpauk Medical College Hospital and is undergoing treatment. She is said to be in critical condition, police sources said.
(Assistance for overcoming suicidal thoughts is available on the State’s health helpline 104, Tele-MANAS 14416. and Sneha’s suicide prevention helpline 044-24640050)
Published – August 01, 2026 11:31 pm IST
