Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): In a heartbreaking turn of events, a 21-year-old Indian student lost her life in Hamilton, Ontario, after being struck by a stray bullet during a shooting incident linked to suspected gang violence.
The young woman, a student at Mohawk College, was waiting at a local bus stop on her way to work when she was caught in the crossfire. Authorities identified her as an innocent bystander who was tragically hit during the confrontation.
Hamilton Police confirmed the incident occurred around 7:30 p.m. on Thursday evening, during what they described as a targeted shooting between rival individuals. The victim suffered a gunshot wound to the chest and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where she later succumbed to her injuries.
According to the ongoing investigation, surveillance footage revealed that a passenger in a black Mercedes SUV opened fire on a white sedan. The sedan fled the scene shortly after the shooting. Stray bullets also shattered the rear window of a nearby house, where residents were watching TV. Thankfully, no one inside the home was injured.
“This appears to be a case of an innocent person being caught in a violent situation she had absolutely nothing to do with,” police stated in an official release.
India’s Consulate General in Toronto expressed sorrow over the incident, calling it a deeply tragic loss. “We are in close touch with the victim’s family and are providing all necessary assistance. Our heartfelt condolences go out to them in this difficult time,” the Consulate posted on social media.
Hamilton Police Chief Frank Bergen also addressed the incident at a press conference on Friday, expressing deep regret over the senseless loss of life. “This young woman had her future ahead of her. It’s devastating to see that taken away due to reckless violence,” he said, as quoted by CTV News.
A homicide investigation is currently underway, with police appealing to the public for any additional footage or information that may help identify those responsible.
