Toronto , Dec 26: A 20-year-old Indian student was shot dead near the University of Toronto Scarborough campus, triggering concern among students and prompting an investigation by Canadian police. The victim has been identified as Shivank Avasthi, an Indian doctoral student.
The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed deep anguish over the incident. In a statement posted on X, the Consulate said it is in touch with the bereaved family and is extending all possible assistance in close coordination with local authorities.
According to police, Shivank Avasthi was shot on Tuesday in the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road area, close to the university campus. Officers reached the spot to find him suffering from a gunshot wound and pronounced him dead at the scene. The suspects fled before police arrived, and a brief campus lockdown was imposed as part of the search operation. The killing marks Toronto’s 41st homicide this year.
The incident has sparked fear and anger among students at the University of Toronto Scarborough. Students took to social media to raise concerns over campus safety, with one post on Reddit stating that the shooting occurred in broad daylight in a valley area frequently used by students. Several students criticised what they described as inadequate security and a lack of clear information about the suspects and motive, saying many now feel unsafe, especially during late classes and exams.
Shivank Avasthi was also a member of the university’s Scarborough cheerleading team, which paid tribute to him on Instagram. The team remembered him as a positive and encouraging presence who brought energy and warmth to practices, saying he would always remain part of the UTSC Cheer family.
The shooting comes just days after another violent incident involving an Indian national in Toronto. Police recently found a 30-year-old Indian-origin woman, Himanshi Khurana, murdered in the city. Investigators are searching for a suspect in that case, which police believe involves intimate partner violence. The Indian Consulate in Toronto has said it is assisting her family as well.
Police continue to investigate the killing of Shivank Avasthi and have appealed for information to trace those responsible.
