DNA Evidence Confirms Death of Murder Suspect in East Garo Hills

Shillong: East Garo Hills Police finished their investigation into a Williamnagar murder case. DNA testing proved the suspect, James R. Sangma, is dead. He died in the woods. Investigators found his decomposed body near Dawa Matchakolgre on July 29, 2025.

Authorities linked the body to Sangma through blood samples from his siblings sent to the Central Forensic Science Laboratory. The forensics confirmed the biological match. Officials identified the remains by matching the DNA to the family and checking items recovered at the scene, including a rosary, a mobile phone, and his clothing.

The police report links Sangma to the brutal killing of a woman at Samgong village on July 18, 2025. He allegedly used a machete to hack her to death before fleeing. Police filed the case under Section 103 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the Williamnagar Women Police Station as Case No. 13/2025. Records show he also faced pending charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act.

The force submitted a final investigation report to the court. The East Garo Hills Police stated, "the investigation was carried out in a fair, impartial, professional and scientific manner while ensuring compliance with all legal procedures." Detectives now ask the public to stop spreading rumors while the case moves through the judicial system.