Indian Student Killed by Stray Bullet in Canada, Homicide Probe Launched
A 21-year-old Indian student, Harsimrat Randhawa, was fatally struck by a stray bullet in Hamilton, Canada, while waiting at a bus stop. Police have launched a homicide investigation.
A tragic shooting incident in Hamilton, Ontario has claimed the life of Harsimrat Randhawa, a 21-year-old Indian student studying at Mohawk College. According to Canadian authorities, she was an innocent bystander fatally hit by a stray bullet on Wednesday evening.
Hamilton Police reported that the shooting occurred around 7:30 pm near Upper James and South Bend Road. Randhawa was waiting at a bus stop on her way to work when a passenger from a moving black car opened fire at a white sedan. She was struck in the chest and succumbed to her injuries after being rushed to the hospital.
Authorities have confirmed that Randhawa’s death is being investigated as a homicide. Surveillance footage reviewed by police shows the black and white vehicles exchanging gunfire before fleeing the scene.
“The investigation has confirmed she was not the intended target but a tragic, innocent victim of the incident,” Hamilton Police said in a statement.
Police added that shots also entered the rear window of a nearby residence, though no other injuries were reported.
The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed deep sorrow over the incident.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Indian student Harsimrat Randhawa in Hamilton, Ontario,” the consulate said on X. “As per local police, she was an innocent victim, fatally struck by a stray bullet during a shooting incident involving two vehicles. A homicide investigation is currently underway. We are in close contact with her family and are extending all necessary assistance.”
Investigators have appealed to the public for dashcam or security camera footage from the area between 7:15 pm and 7:45 pm. Police are working to identify the suspects and vehicles involved in the deadly exchange of gunfire.
Randhawa had recently moved to Canada to pursue her studies and support her family back home. Her death has reignited concerns about rising gun violence in urban areas of Canada, especially incidents involving innocent victims.
Local leaders and immigrant community organizations have called for stronger public safety measures and justice for Randhawa’s family.
The Hamilton Police continue to collect evidence and are urging witnesses or anyone with relevant information to come forward. Meanwhile, Indian authorities remain in contact with Randhawa’s family to facilitate any required assistance.
