Canadian authorities are investigating the fatal shooting of a young Indian doctoral student near the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus, an incident that has sent shockwaves through the international student community and prompted expressions of concern from Indian diplomatic officials.
The victim has been identified as Shivank Avasthi, a 20-year-old Indian national pursuing advanced studies in Canada. The shooting occurred on Tuesday, December 23, near the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road, an area adjacent to the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus.
Incident Reported in the Afternoon
According to the Toronto Police Service, officers were called to the area at approximately 3:30 p.m. after receiving reports of an injured individual lying on the ground. Upon arrival, emergency responders found Avasthi with a gunshot wound. Despite immediate efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police officials confirmed that the case is being treated as a homicide. Speaking to reporters near the location later that evening, Duty Inspector Jeff Allington said investigators were working to secure the crime scene and determine the sequence of events leading up to the shooting.
“Our immediate focus is on preserving evidence, understanding exactly what happened, and notifying the next of kin,” Allington said. “At this stage, there is limited information we can share publicly.”
Suspect Fled Before Police Arrival
Authorities said the suspect fled the area before police reached the scene. No suspect description has been released, and investigators have not disclosed whether the victim was targeted or if the shooting was random.
Police cordoned off sections of the Highland Creek Valley while forensic teams combed the area for evidence. Officers continued canvassing the neighbourhood and reviewing any available surveillance footage from nearby locations.
Investigators have urged anyone who may have witnessed the incident or noticed suspicious activity in the area at the time to contact police, as the investigation remains ongoing.
University Issues Safety Alert
In the aftermath of the shooting, the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus issued an emergency safety alert to students, staff, and faculty. The alert advised individuals inside buildings to remain indoors and those outside to leave the area immediately.
In a statement, the university said it was “extremely saddened” to learn of the death near its campus. However, officials declined to confirm the victim’s academic affiliation, citing privacy considerations and the ongoing police investigation.
“We are grateful to our Campus Safety team, the Toronto Police Service, and emergency medical responders for their swift response,” a university spokesperson said. “The safety of our community remains our top priority.”
Pathways leading into the Highland Creek Valley were temporarily closed, and students were advised to avoid the area until police concluded their investigation.
Indian Consulate Expresses Anguish
India’s diplomatic mission in Canada expressed deep sorrow over the student’s death. The Consulate General of India in Toronto said it is in close contact with Canadian authorities and is extending assistance to the bereaved family.
“We express deep anguish over the tragic death of a young Indian doctoral student, Shivank Avasthi, in a fatal shooting incident near the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus,” the consulate said in a statement shared on social media.
The mission added that it is coordinating with local officials to support the family during the investigation and assist with any necessary formalities.
Impact on Student Community
The killing has heightened anxiety among international students, particularly those from India, who form a significant portion of Canada’s student population. Many students expressed shock over the incident, noting that areas surrounding university campuses are generally considered safe.
Student organisations and community groups have called for enhanced security measures and clearer communication from authorities as the investigation progresses.
While Toronto is one of Canada’s largest and most diverse cities, incidents of gun violence near educational institutions are relatively rare, making the shooting particularly alarming for residents and students alike.
Investigation Continues
Police have not released information regarding a possible motive and have stressed that it is too early to draw conclusions. Autopsy results and ballistic analyses are expected to play a key role in determining the circumstances surrounding the death.
As investigators work to piece together the events, authorities have reiterated their appeal for public cooperation. “Any information, no matter how small, could be crucial,” police said.
The tragic death of Shivank Avasthi has renewed discussions around public safety, emergency response, and support systems for international students far from home. For now, both Indian and Canadian authorities say their priority remains ensuring a thorough investigation and providing support to the grieving family.
