Indian Student Shot Dead Near University of Toronto Scarborough Campus

A 20-year-old Indian student was shot dead near the University of Toronto Scarborough campus on Tuesday afternoon. Police say the victim, identified as Shivank Avasthi, was found with a gunshot wound on Highland Creek Trail. The shooting is now being treated as a homicide. The incident has raised concern among students and the local community.

According to Reuters and other major outlets, officers reached the scene around 3:30 p.m. after reports of an injured person. The student was pronounced dead there. Police say the suspect fled before officers arrived, and no description has been shared yet.

Toronto Police Investigate Homicide of Indian Student

Police say their focus now is to secure the area and gather evidence. Officials also said they must notify the student’s family before releasing more details. According to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, investigators are still searching for clues in the valley area near the campus.

Short alerts were issued to warn people in nearby buildings. Students were told to stay inside. People outside were asked to leave the area at once. The University of Toronto Scarborough said it is working with police as the investigation moves forward.

The campus noted that safety teams responded fast. The school did not confirm if the victim was enrolled at the university. A short statement said staff were saddened by the news but could not share more.

India’s Consulate in Toronto said it felt deep pain over the loss. The mission said it is helping the family and is in touch with local officials. Messages of support also spread online as students expressed shock.

Community Impact and Ongoing Safety Concerns

The shooting has raised fresh worries about safety near the campus. Many students use the Highland Creek Valley trails each day. Police have now closed the pathways while they investigate. They say people should avoid the area until it reopens.

Such cases are rare near the university. But students say the news has left them uneasy. Many expect more patrols and safety checks in the coming days. Police say they will share updates when they confirm facts.

The community is now waiting for more details on the suspect. Officers have asked anyone with information or video footage to contact them. The goal is to understand what took place in the quiet valley area.

This case remains active. Police say the homicide investigation will take time. The main keyword, Indian student, will continue to shape public concern as the search for the suspect continues.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who was the Indian student killed near the University of Toronto?

The victim was identified as Shivank Avasthi, a 20-year-old Indian doctoral student. Police confirmed his identity the day after the shooting. He died at the scene from a gunshot wound.

Q2: Where did the shooting take place?

The shooting happened near Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road. This area is close to the University of Toronto Scarborough campus. Police closed the valley paths during the investigation.

Q3: What are police saying about the suspect?

Police say the suspect fled before officers arrived. They have not shared any description yet. The search is ongoing.

Q4: How did the university respond?

The university issued a safety alert and advised people to stay indoors or avoid the valley. Staff said they were saddened but could not confirm if the victim was a student. Safety teams worked with police on site.

Q5: What support did the Indian Consulate provide?

The Consulate expressed deep anguish and said it is helping the family. Officials are working with local police. They said assistance will continue during the investigation.