Indian Student Shot Dead Near Toronto Campus, Consulate Calls It "Tragic Loss"

New Delhi: A 20-year-old Indian student was shot dead near the University of Toronto Scarborough campus, sparking fear among students and drawing a response from the Indian consulate in Canada.

On Tuesday, police were called to the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road area after reports of gunfire. They found the victim, identified as Shivank Avasthi, suffering from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Investigators said the suspects fled before officers arrived, and a search was underway. 

Who Was the Victim?

Avasthi was a third-year doctoral student and also a member of the University of Toronto Scarborough cheerleading team. Friends and teammates described him as lively and popular on campus. The cheer squad posted on social media that they were "deeply saddened" by his death and remembered him for lifting spirits during practices.

Taking to Instagram, the team wrote, "We are deeply saddened and in shock by the sudden loss of a beloved Maroon, Shivank Avasthi. Shivank lit up practice and brought up everyone’s spirits with his encouragement and support. He brought a smile to anyone’s face when you talked with him, and as a team we were so lucky to have him. Rest easy, Shivank. UTSC Cheerleading will always love you and you will always be apart of our family, in our hearts always."

What Has the Indian Consulate Said?

The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed deep sorrow over the killing and said it was in touch with the student's family. It also pledged to work closely with local authorities to ensure they receive all necessary support. 

"We express deep anguish over the tragic death of a young Indian doctoral student, Mr. Shivank Avasthi, in a fatal shooting incident near the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus. The Consulate is in touch with the bereaved family during this difficult time, and is extending all necessary assistance in close coordination with the local authorities," the Consulate said in a post on X.

How Are Students Reacting?

Avasthi’s death has stirred anxiety among students at the Scarborough campus. Many said they were worried about security, especially in areas they visit frequently. Some students claimed they had earlier flagged concerns about safety in the vicinity where the shooting happened. 

Is This an Isolated Incident?

Toronto Police noted this was the city's 41st homicide this year. A separate recent case involved the death of an Indian-origin woman, and police were seeking a suspect in that matter too. Both cases have heightened concerns about violent crime near university neighborhoods.