A 34-year-old Bengaluru software engineer, Sharmila, was found dead in her apartment on January 3 after a fire. Initially suspected to be accidental, investigations revealed she was murdered by her 18-year-old neighbour, Karnal Kurai. Police state Kurai entered her flat, demanded sexual favours, and strangled her when she resisted. He then set her clothes and other items on fire to destroy evidence and stole her mobile phone. The accused has been arrested and charged with murder and destruction of evidence.