Toronto: A 20-year-old Indian student, Shivank Avasthi, was shot dead near the University of Toronto Scarborough campus, triggering a homicide investigation and renewed concerns over student safety in the area.
Police said they received a call on December 23 at around 3.30 pm local time about a shooting near Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road, close to the university campus. Officers found Avasthi suffering from a gunshot wound and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The suspect or suspects fled before police arrived, and no arrests have been made so far.
The case has been registered as a homicide, and investigators are working to determine the motive behind the attack. Police have appealed to members of the public to share any information that could assist the investigation.
Following the incident, the University of Toronto Scarborough issued a temporary shelter-in-place advisory as a precaution while police secured the area. The alert was lifted later after authorities said there was no ongoing threat to the campus community.
Avasthi was a student at the University of Toronto Scarborough and was actively involved in campus life. He was part of the university’s cheerleading team, which paid tribute to him on social media, remembering him as a positive presence and a supportive teammate who was well-liked by his peers.
The shooting has caused shock among students and residents living near the campus, with many expressing anxiety about safety in areas frequently used by students for commuting and recreation.
India’s Consulate General in Toronto expressed deep sorrow over Avasthi’s death and said it was in touch with his family while coordinating with Canadian authorities to provide necessary assistance.
Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting and have urged anyone with information, including witnesses or those with relevant video footage, to come forward as the probe continues.
