Who Was Shivank Avasthi, the Indian Student Shot Dead Near Toronto University? What We Know

A 20-year-old Indian student was shot dead near the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus, triggering a police manhunt and renewed concerns over student safety in the area.

The victim, identified as Shivank Avasthi, was found with fatal gunshot injuries on Tuesday afternoon, marking Toronto's 41st homicide this year.

What Police Have Said So Far

According to the Toronto Police Service, officers responded to an emergency call shortly after mid-afternoon.

"On Tuesday, at approximately 3:34 pm, police responded to a call for an unknown trouble in the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road area. Officers responded to reports of a person with serious injuries. Officers located a male victim with a gunshot wound. The victim was pronounced deceased on scene," police said in an official statement on Wednesday.

Investigators confirmed that the accused fled before officers arrived.

"The suspect(s) fled the area prior to police arrival," the statement added.

Police have urged anyone with information to contact them at 416-808-7400 or reach out to Crime Stoppers anonymously.

India Expresses Anguish, Offers Family Support

India has expressed strong concern over the killing of the young student. In a statement posted on X, the Consulate General of India in Toronto said it was coordinating closely with local authorities.

"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 statement said.

"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," it added.

Campus Fear and Student Safety Concerns

The killing has unsettled students at the University of Toronto Scarborough, with many voicing alarm over safety conditions on campus. In a Reddit post, a student said Shivank Avasthi, described as a third-year life sciences student, was shot in broad daylight inside the campus valley, an area frequently used by students.

The post criticised what students described as repeated security lapses and flagged concerns that had allegedly been raised earlier. It also questioned the lack of clarity on the motive and suspect details, with several students saying they now feel unsafe attending late classes or examinations.

Another Recent Case Involving Indian Nationals

The shooting comes just days after another violent incident involving an Indian national in Toronto. Police said a 30-year-old Indian-origin woman, Himanshi Khurana, was found murdered in the city.

Investigators are searching for Abdul Ghafoori, also a Toronto resident, in connection with the case. Police have indicated that the incident appears to involve "intimate partner violence", according to CBC News.

In a separate statement, India's Consulate in Toronto confirmed it is assisting Himanshi Khurana's family as investigations continue.