Former Indian cricketer David Jude Johnson has died after reportedly falling off the balcony of his fourth-floor apartment in Bengaluru. The police are investigating the incident as a suspicious death, with a possibility of suicide.
The incident unfolded on Thursday around 10:30 am at SLV Paradise Apartment in Kanakashri Layout, Kothanur, where Johnson resided.
The Times Of India reported that Johnson, aged 52, was found dead following a fall from his apartment balcony. His wife reported the incident to the police, stating that Johnson had accidentally slipped and fallen.
Police, however, suspect that the fall may have been a result of suicide. They have registered a case of suspicious death and are conducting further investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Johnson had been grappling with several personal challenges. He was dealing with issues related to alcohol and had recently joined a de-addiction center in Bengaluru. This effort was part of his attempt to overcome his addiction.
Adding to his troubles, Johnson was admitted to a private hospital in Ashoknagar last week due to a stomach-related illness. He had been discharged from the hospital just three days before the tragic incident occurred.
Reports suggest that Johnson may have been experiencing depression, exacerbated by his prolonged health issues. These factors are being considered by the Kothanur police as they investigate the possibility of suicide.
Johnson's sudden death has sent shockwaves through the cricket community. Many noted cricketers, including Sachin Tendulkar and Anil Kumble, expressed their grief over his untimely demise.
Johnson, hailing from Arsikere in Hassan district, was a right-arm pacer who played two test matches for India in 1996. He played against Australia in New Delhi and South Africa in Durban. Despite a brief international career, Johnson made significant contributions at the domestic level.
He was a prominent pace bowler for Karnataka's Ranji team and later played for the Belagavi Panthers in the Karnataka Premier League. His role in these teams cemented his reputation as a skilled and reliable bowler.
The SLV Paradise Apartment complex, where the incident took place, is located in Kanakashri Layout, Kothanur. The fall from such a height raises legitimate concerns, prompting the police to thoroughly investigate all potential angles.
Johnson's wife, who was present at the time of the incident, informed the police that it was a tragic accident. She described how Johnson had slipped and fallen off the balcony, a detail that the police are meticulously reviewing as they piece together the events.
The investigators are looking into all aspects of Johnson's life, including his recent medical history and his attempt to combat addiction. They aim to build a comprehensive understanding of what led to this devastating event.
The cricket fraternity remembers Johnson not only for his prowess on the field but also for his spirited fight against personal demons. His death highlights the often-hidden struggles many athletes face after their careers have ended.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on unraveling the truth behind Johnson's fatal fall. Whether it was a tragic accident or a deliberate act of desperation remains to be determined by the authorities.
In the meantime, tributes pour in to honor Johnson's memory. His contributions to Indian cricket, particularly within the domestic circuits, have left a lasting impact on players and fans alike.
David Jude Johnson's death following a fall from his apartment balcony in Bengaluru on Thursday is currently under investigation by police as a suspicious death with potential links to suicide.
The 52-year-old former cricketer had been struggling with alcohol addiction and recent health issues. As authorities delve into the incident, the cricket community mourns the loss of a player remembered for his skill and dedication on the field.
