Indian Doctoral Student Shot Dead Near University of Toronto Campus

Toronto, Dec 26: A 20-year-old Indian doctoral student was shot dead near the University of Toronto Scarborough campus, with Canadian authorities investigating the incident as a homicide, officials said.

Toronto Police identified the victim as Shivank Avasthi, who was found with a gunshot wound near Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road on Tuesday afternoon. Police were called to the area around 3:30 pm following reports of an injured person lying on the ground.

Duty Inspector Jeff Allington said officers arriving at the scene found the victim suffering from a gunshot injury and he was pronounced dead on the spot. Police confirmed that the suspect fled the area before their arrival and no description of the assailant has been released so far.

“Our immediate focus is on preserving evidence, determining what happened and notifying the next of kin,” Allington said, adding that limited information could be shared at this stage due to the ongoing investigation.

India’s Consulate in Toronto expressed “deep anguish” over the student’s death and said it is in close contact with the bereaved family while extending all possible assistance in coordination with local authorities.

A spokesperson for the University of Toronto Scarborough said the institution was “extremely saddened” by the incident but did not confirm whether the deceased was enrolled at the campus. The university issued a safety alert, advising people to stay indoors or avoid the area as police continued their investigation in the Highland Creek Valley.

Police said pathways into the valley remain closed and urged the public to avoid the area until further notice. (Agencies)