Manhunt Launched After Indian Student Killed In Toronto Shooting

TORONTO-A 20-year-old Indian student was fatally shot near the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus, following which the Canadian Police launched a manhunt and an appeal to the public for information related to the incident.

The victim has been identified as Shivank Avasthi, an Indian national pursuing doctoral studies in Canada. According to Toronto Police, he was discovered with a gunshot injury on December 23 afternoon, marking the city’s 41st homicide case of the year.

“On December 23, at approximately 3.34 p.m., police responded to a call for an unknown trouble in the Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road area. Officers responded to reports of a person with serious injuries. Officers located a male victim with a gunshot wound. The victim was pronounced deceased on scene,” the Toronto Police said in an official statement on December 24.

“The suspect(s) fled the area before police arrival,” the statement said. Anyone with information was asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).

The killing has sent shockwaves through the Indian community in Canada and drawn a strong reaction from Indian authorities. 

“The Consulate is in touch with the bereaved family during this difficult time, and is extending all necessary assistance in close coordination with the local authorities,” the Consulate General of India in Toronto posted. (IANS)