A 36-year-old man killed his wife by setting her on fire in broad daylight on a public road in Cherthala. The deceased was identified as Arathi (30) from Vettackal near Cherthala.

According to police, the incident occurred around 9.30 am when the victim, employed at a private financial firm in Cherthala, was on her way to  office. The accused Shyam G Chandran, intercepted her two-wheeler near Government Taluk Hospital, Cherthala, doused the woman with petrol, and set her ablaze.

The woman, who suffered serious burns all over her body, was rushed to Government Taluk Hospital, Cherthala, and later transferred to Government Medical College (MCH), Alappuzha. She succumbed to her injuries in the evening. Shyam, who also suffered burns, too was admitted to the Medical College.

The police informed that a case has been registered in connection with the incident.

"The couple got separated last year.Family issues have resulted in the murder," said an officer.

Eyewitnesses said that the accused continued to pour petrol over the woman even after setting her alight. Although Arathi attempted to run away, the accused had already set her alight. She then rushed to a nearby house, from where the residents shifted her to the hospital.

Last year, Arathi had filed a domestic violence case against Shyam, and the court ordered necessary protection. Earlier on February 4, the Pattanakkad police arrested Shyam under various non-bailable provisions for violating the court order based on a complaint filed by Arathi alleging threats from him. He was released later.

The couple has two children. Shyam is employed as a tile labourer. Arathi was employed in a finance institution.