Lucknow police probe divorce settlement in triple murder-suicide

Police in Lucknow are investigating a triple shooting and suicide involving a disputed divorce settlement. The incident involved 38-year-old Manas Vajpayee, who allegedly shot his wife, Divya Mishra, outside her workplace at an ICICI Bank branch in Gomti Nagar. Following the shooting, Vajpayee reportedly killed his 28-year-old sister, Shiva Vajpayee, before committing suicide.

Investigators are scrutinizing court documents and divorce proceedings. Reports indicate that Divya Mishra had filed for divorce in early 2026, alleging physical and mental cruelty, dowry-related harassment, and threats to her life. A central point of the investigation is a reported demand for Rs 1 crore as part of a financial or alimony settlement, a matter that was reportedly discussed in court just two days before the killings.

Additional factors being examined include the couple's strained relationship and disagreements regarding the care of Shiva Vajpayee, who reportedly suffered from mental health issues. Family members have also raised allegations of physical abuse during the marriage.