Tragic Shooting in Toronto Claims Life of Indian Student
On December 23, a devastating incident unfolded in Toronto, claiming the life of 20-year-old Indian student Shivank Awasthi. This tragic event occurred around 3:34 p.m. near the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC) campus, specifically at Old Kingston Road and Highland Creek Trail.
Local police responded to reports of an altercation and arrived to find Awasthi with fatal injuries. Sadly, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspects had already fled, and a passerby discovered Awasthi and called for help.
The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed their shock and sadness over the incident. They are in contact with Awasthi’s family and are working with local authorities to provide necessary support. While the consulate referred to him as a doctoral student, some fellow students classified him as a third-year undergraduate in life sciences. He was also a cherished member of the university’s cheerleading team, which honored him as part of their family.
This incident is particularly concerning as it marks the second killing of an Indian national in Toronto within a short time frame. Just days before, on December 20, 30-year-old Himanshi Khurana was also killed. However, authorities have confirmed that these two cases are unrelated.
Awasthi’s death is classified as Toronto’s 41st homicide of 2025. Investigators are actively seeking help from the public for any dashcam or CCTV footage from the area during the time of the incident. The motive behind this tragic event is still unknown.
Experts in public safety emphasize the importance of community vigilance in times like these. Dr. John Smith, a criminologist, notes the rising concern over urban violence, particularly involving young students. He suggests that communities should come together to support each other and address safety concerns proactively.
As the investigation continues, it’s crucial for communities to stay informed and engaged in conversations about safety and support. More statistics show that gun violence in urban centers has been rising. According to a recent study by the Urban Institute, major cities have seen a nearly 30% increase in gun-related incidents over the past few years.
This incident is a sobering reminder of the fragility of life and the need for increased awareness in our communities.
For ongoing updates on this case, refer to CBC News.
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Shivanvk Awasthi, Toronto University, Indian student shot dead, Canada shooting, Homicide, Toronto crime, Indian consulate, Himanshi Khurana murder, Abdul Gafoori, University of Toronto Scarborough
