Archive · 31 Aug 2026
Two Kerala Women Killed in California; Repatriation Efforts Underway
Two women from Kerala, Anjana and Ann Mathew, died in California.
Officials have confirmed that their deaths were homicides.
A woman named Anila is being held by US police.
Relatives said the three women lived in the same apartment with their families.
They said Anila allegedly stabbed Ann and later hit Anjana with a car.
The exact reason for the killings is not known yet.
Union Minister Suresh Gopi said officials are working to bring the women’s remains back to India.
The remains may stay in the United States until investigators finish necessary procedures.
Anjana of Thrissur and Ann Mathew of Thiruvananthapuram were identified as the two deceased women.
Their deaths in California were officially confirmed as homicides, according to Union Minister Suresh Gopi.
A woman identified as Anila, reportedly a friend of the victims, is in US police custody.
Relatives said Anila allegedly stabbed Ann and later struck Anjana with a car.
Indian authorities are coordinating documentation and repatriation, but the remains may be retained for investigation.
- Who
- Anjana of Thrissur and Ann Mathew of Thiruvananthapuram were killed; Anila is in US police custody.
- What
- The two women’s deaths were officially confirmed as homicides, and arrangements are being made to repatriate their remains.
- When
- The minister spoke on Monday and contacted the Consul General at 7:25 a.m.; the deaths were reported to relatives on Saturday.
- Where
- The killings allegedly occurred at an apartment in California, United States.
- Why
- The motive has not been established; US authorities are continuing their investigation.
- Victims
- Anjana and Ann Mathew, both from Kerala
- Suspect
- Anila, identified by relatives as a friend of the two women
- Location
- California, United States
- Official classification
- The deaths were confirmed as homicides
- Repatriation
- Funeral homes were instructed to complete documentation to send the remains to India
- Investigation status
- Authorities may retain the remains while further investigation continues
- Family impact
- Anjana is survived by her husband, Vijeesh, and their six-year-old daughter