The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed profound grief on December 25, 2025 (local time), over the fatal shooting of a 20-year-old Indian doctoral student near the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC) Campus. In a statement posted on X, the consulate described the incident as tragic and conveyed deep anguish, stating, “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.” Officials confirmed that the consulate is in direct contact with the bereaved family during this difficult period and is extending all necessary assistance in close coordination with local Canadian authorities.
The shooting occurred on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, at approximately 3:34 p.m., in the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road area, a wooded trail system close to the campus. Toronto Police responded to reports of “unknown trouble” and discovered Avasthi suffering from a gunshot wound; he was pronounced dead at the scene. Suspects fled before officers arrived, prompting a brief campus lockdown and a full-scale homicide investigation. This marks the city's 41st homicide of 2025, with police urging the public to provide information via direct contact (416-808-7400) or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
Avasthi, identified as an Indian national studying at UTSC (reportedly in life sciences and a member of the university's cheerleading team), had been living in Toronto. The cheerleading team paid tribute to him on social media, describing him as a supportive and uplifting teammate who brought smiles to others and will always remain part of their community. The incident has heightened safety concerns among students, particularly regarding the poorly lit and under-patrolled off-campus trails. It comes shortly after another violent case involving an Indian national in the city, amplifying worries within the Indian diaspora.
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The consulate's response underscores ongoing efforts to support Indian nationals abroad amid such tragedies, while Toronto Police continue their probe with no arrests reported as of December 26, 2025. Authorities have appealed for witnesses or anyone with details to come forward, emphasizing the community's role in resolving the case. This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of safety challenges faced by international students in urban areas.
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