Munuswamy, a head constable from Tamil Nadu, succumbed to injuries after being stabbed by chain snatchers in Hosur, on Wednesday.
In a strange twist, Bijju, who was one of the accused, was nabbed and also died in custody.
According to reports, Bijju was 19 years old. While the police claim that he died of a heart attack, sources say that the custodial killing angle is also being looked into.
The incident took place when a pregnant woman was attacked by chain snatchers on a bike. The woman suffered minor injuries and was immediately taken to the Hosur Government Hospital.
A team led by sub-inspector Nagaraj then traced the chain-snatchers near Hosur railway station at Bharathidasan Nagar. It was reportedly a four-member group, although the exact number remains unconfirmed.
In the ensuing chase, the gang escaped to a three-storey building. When the police cornered Bijju in the building, the teenage accused stabbed Munuswamy. While the latter was rushed to a private hospital. However, he succumbed to injuries.
The other suspects have reportedly escaped to Bengaluru.
Meanwhile Tamil Nadu chief Minister Jayalalithaa has announced Rs 5 lakh aid to the deceased constable's family.