A 20-year-old Indian student pursuing a PhD at the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus was fatally shot in the vicinity of the university, police have confirmed. The deceased has been identified as Shivank Awasthi. Following the incident, the alleged perpetrator remains at large, with local authorities urging the public to provide any information that could assist in his apprehension.
Toronto Police reported that Awasthi’s death marks the 41st homicide in the city this year, highlighting a troubling rise in violent incidents. According to an official police statement, officers responded to an emergency call on Tuesday at 3:34 PM regarding a seriously injured individual in the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road area. Upon arrival, paramedics found Awasthi shot and lying on the ground, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
“The suspect had fled the area before our arrival,” the police statement read. Authorities have appealed to any eyewitnesses or individuals with relevant information to come forward to aid the ongoing investigation.
The Government of India has expressed deep condolences over the loss of the promising student. The Indian Consulate General in Toronto stated that it is maintaining continuous contact with Awasthi’s family and providing all necessary legal and logistical assistance, including repatriation of the body.
This tragic event comes just one week after another Indian national, Himanshi Khurana (30), was murdered in Toronto. Her body was discovered last Saturday in a residence on Strachan Avenue, a day after she was reported missing. In connection with her death, a 32-year-old man named Abdul Gafuri has had an arrest warrant issued. Police have noted that Khurana and Gafuri were previously acquainted and shared a personal relationship.
The back-to-back murders of Indian nationals have raised concern among the city’s Indian expatriate community, including students. Toronto Police, in collaboration with the Indian Consulate and local authorities, continue to investigate both cases.
Summary of Recent Incidents Involving Indian Nationals in Toronto
| Date | Victim Name | Age | Location | Status of Investigation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 17, 2025 | Himanshi Khurana | 30 | Strachan Avenue | Suspect Abdul Gafuri wanted |
| Dec 24, 2025 | Shivank Awasthi | 20 | Highland Creek Trail / Old Kingston Rd | Suspect at large, investigation ongoing |
Authorities have appealed to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity, emphasising that community cooperation is crucial in bringing the perpetrators to justice.
