Who was the Indian student killed near Toronto University?
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Synopsis
A shocking incident has unfolded near the University of Toronto, where a young Indian doctoral student, Shivank Avasthi, was fatally shot. The Canadian authorities are now on a manhunt for the suspect, raising serious concerns about the safety of international students in the region.
Key Takeaways
- Shivank Avasthi, a 20-year-old Indian doctoral student, was shot near the University of Toronto.
- The authorities have initiated a manhunt for the suspect(s).
- The incident marks Toronto's 41st homicide of the year.
- The Indian Consulate is providing support to Avasthi's family.
- Public assistance is being sought in the investigation.
New Delhi, Dec 26 (NationPress) A 20-year-old Indian student was tragically killed in a shooting incident near the University of Toronto's Scarborough campus. In response, the Canadian authorities have initiated a manhunt and are appealing to the public for any leads regarding the case.
The deceased has been identified as Shivank Avasthi, an Indian national engaged in doctoral studies in Canada. As reported by the Toronto Police, he was found with a gunshot wound on Tuesday afternoon, marking the city's 41st homicide for the year.
On Tuesday, around 3:34 PM, officers arrived at the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road area following reports of a person with severe injuries. Upon arrival, they discovered a male victim with a gunshot wound, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
The police statement indicated, “The suspect(s) fled the area prior to police arrival.”
Authorities are urging anyone with information to reach out to them at 416-808-7400, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 416-222-TIPS (8477) or www.222tips.com.
This incident has sent shockwaves through the Indian community in Canada, prompting a strong reaction from Indian officials. The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed profound sorrow over Avasthi's untimely demise and confirmed that they are providing full support to his family.
“We express deep anguish over the tragic death of young Indian doctoral student, Mr. Shivank Avasthi, in a fatal shooting incident near the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus. The Consulate is in contact with the bereaved family during this challenging time and is extending all necessary assistance in close coordination with local authorities,” the Consulate General stated on X.
This incident follows the recent murder of another Indian national in Toronto, raising significant concerns regarding the safety of international students and residents. Last week, 30-year-old Himanshi Khurana was found deceased inside a residence, just a day after she was reported missing in the Strachan Avenue and Wellington Street West area.
Following an investigation, the Toronto Police issued an arrest warrant for 32-year-old Abdul Ghafoori, a Toronto resident, charging him with first-degree murder concerning Khurana's death. Reports indicate that the accused and the victim were in an intimate partner relationship.
In response to Khurana's murder, the Indian Consulate in Toronto expressed its shock and grief, extending condolences to her family and assuring them of ongoing support. They have been closely monitoring the case and are engaged with local authorities to assist the victim's relatives.
“We are deeply saddened and shocked by the murder of Himanshi Khurana, a young Indian national, in Toronto. We extend our deepest condolences to her bereaved family during this moment of profound grief. The Consulate has been in close touch with the matter over the past few days, and all possible assistance is being extended to the family in close coordination with local authorities,” the Consulate posted on X.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight the increasing concerns for safety among international students in Canada, particularly in light of recent violent incidents. It is crucial for the community and authorities to come together to ensure the security and well-being of all students, fostering an environment where education can thrive without fear.
NationPress
26/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to the Indian student near Toronto?
A 20-year-old Indian student, Shivank Avasthi, was fatally shot near the University of Toronto's Scarborough campus, leading to a police manhunt for the suspect.
Who is the suspect in this shooting?
As of now, the suspect(s) have fled the scene, and the police are appealing for public assistance in locating them.
What has the Indian Consulate said about the incident?
The Indian Consulate in Toronto expressed deep sorrow over Avasthi's death and is providing full support to his family during this difficult time.
Is this the first incident involving Indian students in Toronto?
No, this incident follows another tragic case involving Indian national Himanshi Khurana, raising concerns about the safety of students.
How can one provide information about the shooting?
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Toronto police at 416-808-7400 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
