New York/IBNS-CMEDIA: A 30-year-old Indian software engineer has been arrested in the United States for allegedly murdering his wife and staging the crime scene to make her death appear suspiciously accidental, nearly nine months after she was found dead at their apartment, according to media reports.
The accused, Avinash Narne, has been charged with one count of first-degree murder in connection with the death of his 27-year-old wife, Raajitha Sabbineni. If convicted, he could face life imprisonment.
Police found woman dead inside bathroom
According to investigators, Narne called police claiming he had returned home after being away for about 40 minutes and found his wife locked inside the bathroom, refusing to respond.
When officers forced open the bathroom door, they found Sabbineni lying unconscious on the floor. She was declared dead at the scene.
Investigation contradicted husband’s account
Narne initially told investigators that he had stepped out of the apartment and discovered his wife unresponsive upon returning.
However, authorities reviewing surveillance footage and other evidence reportedly found no indication that anyone had entered or left the apartment during the period Narne claimed to be away.
Based on the evidence, police ruled Sabbineni’s death a homicide.
Alleged secret relationship emerges
As the investigation progressed, detectives allegedly uncovered that Narne had been involved in a long-running relationship with another woman in India.
Investigators said the two had exchanged messages on the day of the alleged murder. The woman had reportedly attended Narne and Sabbineni’s wedding in 2025.
Messages and photo become key evidence
According to media reports, investigators found that Narne had allegedly sent his girlfriend a photograph of Sabbineni’s body after her death.
Chat records also revealed Sabbineni had complained to Narne about a drink he had prepared for her, saying it tasted “bitter.”
Police reportedly found references to the same drink in conversations between Narne and his alleged girlfriend, making the messages a significant part of the investigation.
Accused in custody
Narne has been arrested and is currently being held on $5 million bail.
