A 28-year-old youth from Telangana, Anshul Kuncha, was shot dead in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in the United States while delivering pizza on what his family alleges was a deliberate trap set through a fake order. The killing occurred on the intervening night of Friday and Saturday, according to information received by his family in Gundlapochampally, Medchal Malkajgiri district, Telangana.

How the Attack Unfolded

Anshul, who was enrolled in a Master of Business Administration programme in the US after arriving in 2023, was employed at a multinational company and worked part-time as a pizza delivery executive on weekends to supplement his income. According to his family, he received a delivery order directing him to a deserted location past midnight.

When he reached the spot, two unidentified masked men carrying backpacks opened fire, shooting him multiple times in the head at point-blank range. Anshul died on the spot. The assailants fled the scene immediately after the shooting.

No Robbery, Motive Unclear

Notably, nothing was stolen from the victim, deepening questions about the motive behind the killing. The absence of theft has led his family to believe the delivery order was used solely as a lure. This is consistent with a pattern of so-called 'trap robberies' targeting delivery workers in US cities, though investigators have not publicly confirmed a motive in this case.

Anshul's family noted that he had previously been robbed in the US, during which his chain, phone, and cash were taken — suggesting he may have been targeted before.

Family's Account and Appeal

His sister Tanvi described the incident in anguished terms. 'He was told to deliver pizza in an abandoned area, but we later learned it was a decoy. There was no one there; it was a trap, meant solely to kill him. We do not know what they gained or what their intentions were. They took my brother and killed him,' she said.

The family has appealed to both the Central government and the Telangana state government for help in repatriating Anshul's body to India. US authorities are reportedly expected to hand over the body by Monday, and the family has urged that the process be expedited.

Consulate Steps In

The Consulate General of India in New York confirmed it is in contact with local authorities and the bereaved family. In a post on X, the Consulate stated: 'We are deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Mr. Anshul Kuncha, an Indian national in Philadelphia, PA. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time. The Consulate is in touch with Anshul's family and is extending all possible assistance.'

The case has drawn attention to the vulnerability of gig and delivery workers in the US, particularly those working late-night shifts in unfamiliar neighbourhoods. Philadelphia authorities are investigating; no arrests have been reported so far. The family and the Indian government's response in the coming days will determine how swiftly Anshul's remains are brought home.