An Indian doctoral student, Shivank Avasthi , 20, was found shot dead near the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC) campus on Tuesday . Toronto Police identified Avasthi as the victim on Wednesday. Authorities have launched a homicide investigation into his death.
Incident and Discovery
Toronto Police responded to an emergency call at approximately 3:30 PM on Tuesday. The call reported an injured person lying on the ground. Officers located the individual near the intersection of Highland Creek Trail and Old Kingston Road . Upon arrival, police found a person suffering from a gunshot wound. That person was pronounced dead at the scene, according to reports by the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC).
Police Homicide Investigation
Duty Inspector Jeff Allington addressed reporters near the incident site on Tuesday night. He confirmed the police were actively investigating the case as a homicide. Inspector Allington detailed the initial steps of the investigation. Police focused on meticulously preserving evidence present at the crime scene. They also worked to determine the exact circumstances leading to the shooting. A priority for the Toronto Police Service was notifying Avasthi’s next of kin, a critical step in any such investigation.
Toronto Police have stated that the individual responsible for the shooting fled the area. This occurred prior to the arrival of law enforcement officers. As of the latest updates, police have not released any description of a potential suspect. The investigation remains active, with authorities gathering further information and pursuing leads.
International and University Reactions
India’s Consulate in Toronto officially responded to the incident with profound sorrow. The Consulate released a statement on X (formerly Twitter). It conveyed “deep anguish over the tragic death of a young Indian doctoral student, Shivank Avasthi.” The Consulate confirmed it is maintaining direct contact with Avasthi’s bereaved family during this difficult period. They are providing all necessary assistance. This includes close coordination efforts with local Canadian authorities to support the family.
The University of Toronto Scarborough also addressed the incident. A UTSC spokesperson expressed the university’s “extreme sadness” upon learning of the death. The incident occurred in close proximity to the campus. The spokesperson did not confirm if Shivank Avasthi was officially enrolled as a student at UTSC. According to CP24 Television network reports, the university spokesperson stated, “We cannot comment on the identity of the victim at this time,” in a statement issued Wednesday evening.
Campus Safety Measures and Area Closure
In response to the serious nature of the event, the University of Toronto Scarborough campus issued a safety alert. This alert provided specific instructions to the campus community. It advised anyone present within a campus building to remain inside. Individuals who were outdoors in the vicinity were instructed to immediately leave the area for their safety. The university publicly acknowledged its gratitude to the Campus Safety team. They also thanked the Toronto Police Service and emergency medical service personnel for their rapid and professional response to the emergency.
The primary area of police investigation and activity is the Highland Creek Valley at UTSC. The university communicated through a social media post that all pathways leading into this valley remain closed to the public. The campus community and general public are strongly advised to avoid this specific valley area. These closures will remain in effect until the police investigation concludes and authorities officially deem the area safe for reopening. These measures are critical for ensuring public safety and facilitating the ongoing police work.