A 21-year-old Indian international student, Harsimrat Randhawa, has tragically died after being struck by a stray bullet in a shooting incident in Hamilton, Ontario. The Consulate General of India in Toronto confirmed her death and expressed deep sorrow in an official statement on Friday.
“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of Indian student Harsimrat Randhawa in Hamilton, Ontario. 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,” the statement read.
“We are in close contact with her family and are extending all necessary assistance. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved family during this difficult time.”
Hamilton Police said the shooting occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Thursday near the intersection of Upper James Street and South Bend Road. Randhawa, who was studying at Mohawk College, was standing at a bus stop on her way to work when gunfire erupted.
She suffered a gunshot wound to the chest and was rushed to hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
Police believe the gunfire came from a black Mercedes SUV targeting occupants of a white sedan. Surveillance footage reviewed by investigators shows the Mercedes heading west on South Bend Road after the shooting, while the white sedan drove north on Upper James Street.
Stray bullets from the same gunfire also pierced the rear window of a nearby home on Allenby Avenue, where residents were watching television. Thankfully, no one inside was injured.
Mohawk College issued a statement mourning the loss of Randhawa, describing her as a valued member of their community. “Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time,” the college said.
“We know this loss is being felt by many and we will do everything we can to support Harsimrat’s friends, family and the broader college community.”
Hamilton Police are urging anyone with dashcam or security footage from the area between 7:15 p.m. and 7:45 p.m. to come forward as the investigation continues.
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