Toronto: An Indian research student was shot dead near the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus, triggering shock and concern among the Indian diaspora in Canada. 
The victim has been identified as Shivank Awasthi (20), a PhD student. Toronto Police have registered a homicide case and launched an investigation.
Incident Near University Campus
The shooting occurred around 3.30 pm on Tuesday, December 23, near the intersection of Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road, close to the university campus. Police said they received reports of a person with gunshot injuries and arrived at the scene to find Awasthi critically wounded. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Preliminary findings suggest that the suspects fled the area in a vehicle before police arrived. Authorities have not yet released details about the motive or the number of assailants involved.
This incident marks Toronto’s 41st reported homicide of 2025. Following the shooting, a brief lockdown was imposed on parts of the university campus as a precautionary measure. Police have urged anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
Indian Consulate Expresses Deep Condolences
The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed profound grief over the death of the young student. In a statement posted on social media platform X, the Consulate said it is in constant contact with Awasthi’s family and is coordinating with local authorities to provide all necessary assistance, including arrangements for repatriation of the mortal remains.
Another Killing Involving Indian-Origin Woman
In a separate incident, another Indian-origin woman was found murdered in Toronto. The victim, Himanshi Khurana (30), was discovered dead earlier this week. Police have issued a Canada-wide lookout notice for Abdul Ghafoori (32), who is believed to have been closely associated with the victim.
According to a report by CBC News, investigators suspect domestic conflict may have played a role in the killing, though the probe is ongoing.
Rising Concern Among Indian Diaspora
The back-to-back violent incidents have heightened anxiety among the Indian community in Canada, particularly students and young professionals. Community leaders have called for enhanced safety measures and swift action by authorities to ensure the security of international students and immigrants.
.png)
The opinions posted here do not belong to 🔰www.indiansdaily.com. The author is solely responsible for the opinions.
As per the IT policy of the Central Government, insults against an individual, community, religion or country, defamatory and inflammatory remarks, obscene and vulgar language are punishable offenses. Legal action will be taken for such expressions of opinion.