Lohagad Fort Murder Case: How a Hoodie in 33°C Heat Helped Police Crack the Alleged Murder of Pune Businessman Ketan Agarwal

June 24, 2026 Sheetal

What initially appeared to be a tragic trekking accident at Maharashtra’s Lohagad Fort has now emerged as one of the most shocking murder investigations of 2026. Pune businessman Ketan Agarwal’s death, first believed to be the result of an accidental fall, has taken a dramatic turn after police alleged that his fiancée, Siya Goyal, and her alleged lover, Chetan Chaudhary, conspired to kill him. A seemingly minor detail—a man wearing a hoodie in scorching June heat—became the breakthrough clue that helped investigators uncover the alleged conspiracy.

Who Was Ketan Agarwal?

Ketan Agarwal, a 26-year-old businessman and director of a prominent real estate firm in Pune, was preparing for his upcoming wedding. According to investigators, he had recently become engaged to Siya Goyal, and the couple’s families were planning a grand wedding later this year. What should have been a happy chapter in his life instead ended in tragedy during a trek to Lohagad Fort near Lonavala on June 18.

Initially, authorities treated the incident as an accidental fall after Siya reportedly told police that Ketan had slipped near a cliff edge while taking photographs. However, family members questioned the circumstances surrounding his death, prompting a deeper investigation.

The Hoodie Clue That Changed Everything

The turning point came when investigators reviewed CCTV footage from the area surrounding Lohagad Fort. The footage showed a mysterious man wearing a hoodie while following Ketan and Siya. At first glance, the detail seemed insignificant, but investigators quickly became suspicious because temperatures around the fort were approximately 33 degrees Celsius that day.

Police later identified the hooded individual as Chetan Chaudhary. Investigators reportedly matched CCTV images with photographs and social media profiles, establishing his presence near the fort on the day of the incident. The unusual clothing choice in extreme heat became one of the first clues that suggested something was seriously wrong with the original accident narrative.

Further technical analysis, including mobile phone data and digital evidence, allegedly revealed connections between Siya Goyal and Chetan Chaudhary, strengthening suspicions of a pre-planned conspiracy.

Allegations of a Premeditated Murder Plot

According to police, the murder was not a spontaneous act but the culmination of multiple alleged attempts on Ketan’s life. Investigators claim that Siya and Chetan viewed Ketan as an obstacle because they were allegedly involved in a relationship and did not want the planned marriage to proceed.

Police allege that there were several failed attempts before the final incident.

One alleged attempt occurred during an earlier visit to Lohagad Fort. Investigators claim Ketan survived after managing to hold onto vegetation when he was pushed near a cliff. According to police, Siya later convinced him that she had acted to protect him from a snake, causing him to dismiss any suspicion.

Investigators also claim another planned outing failed when circumstances prevented Ketan from making the trip. Eventually, police allege that the final plan was carried out on June 18, when Ketan fell into a deep gorge at Lohagad Fort.

Digital Evidence Strengthened the Case

Investigators reportedly relied heavily on digital evidence to piece together the alleged conspiracy. Police examined mobile phone records, call detail records, location data, CCTV footage, and social media activity.

According to reports, Chetan allegedly left his personal phone elsewhere and carried a different device during the trip in an apparent attempt to avoid detection. Investigators also found that internet activity connected to him remained unusually limited during key hours of the day, raising additional suspicions.

Police say these findings, combined with CCTV footage and witness statements, helped establish a timeline that contradicted the initial accident explanation.

Family Raises Questions About Relationship

Following the arrests, Ketan’s family publicly questioned why the marriage was pursued if Siya allegedly did not wish to continue the relationship. His father stated that the family had concerns about certain developments before the tragedy and believes important warning signs may have been overlooked.

Additional reports suggest that investigators are examining whether Siya had expressed reservations about the marriage before the engagement and whether those concerns played a role in the alleged motive.

Why This Case Has Shocked India

The Lohagad Fort murder case has generated national attention because of the alleged level of planning involved and the dramatic way investigators uncovered the truth.

A case initially classified as an accidental trekking death transformed into a murder investigation because police noticed one unusual detail in surveillance footage. The image of a hooded man walking through a tourist destination in extreme summer heat ultimately led investigators toward a much larger story involving alleged deception, hidden relationships, and a carefully planned crime.

As the investigation continues, authorities are expected to examine additional evidence and witness statements. The case remains one of the most talked-about criminal investigations in Maharashtra this year.

FAQs

What is the Lohagad Fort murder case?

The case involves the death of Pune businessman Ketan Agarwal, initially believed to be an accidental fall during a trek. Police now allege it was a premeditated murder involving his fiancée Siya Goyal and her alleged lover Chetan Chaudhary.

Who was Ketan Agarwal?

Ketan Agarwal was a 26-year-old businessman and real estate company director from Pune who died after falling into a gorge at Lohagad Fort.

Why did police become suspicious?

Investigators noticed CCTV footage showing a man in a hoodie following the couple despite temperatures being around 33°C, which appeared highly unusual.

Who is Chetan Chaudhary?

Police identified Chetan Chaudhary as the hooded individual seen in CCTV footage and allege that he was involved in a relationship with Siya Goyal.

What role did CCTV footage play?

CCTV footage helped investigators identify suspicious movements and place Chetan Chaudhary near the scene, becoming a major breakthrough in the case.

Were there earlier attempts to harm Ketan Agarwal?

According to police allegations, there were multiple failed attempts before the final incident at Lohagad Fort. Investigators claim one earlier attempt was disguised as a snake-related accident.