Goa student dies by suicide after viral video sparks online backlash

A 23-year-old college student from Mapusa in Goa died by suicide after a video allegedly showing him littering on a roadside went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism and prompting police action.

The student, identified as Samuel de Braganca, had recently completed his second year of graduation and lived with his mother and two sisters. According to reports, the viral video allegedly showed him throwing garbage on a roadside in North Goa, leading to public outrage online and demands for action.

Following the circulation of the video, police registered a case and issued a notice to the student. Authorities said he appeared before investigators and was cooperating with the inquiry.

Police said the student later died by suicide using a licensed firearm belonging to his family. He was rushed to a hospital but was declared dead on arrival.

Investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the death. While no official connection has been established between the viral video, the police case and the suicide, officers are reviewing the sequence of events and speaking with family members and others close to him.

According to reports, family members told police that he had been deeply distressed after becoming the target of criticism and trolling on social media. They said he had been under significant stress in the period leading up to his death.

Police have registered an accidental death case and said further investigation is underway to determine all factors related to the incident.