California (Rajeev Sharma): The body of a 22-year-old Indian student who had been reported missing in the United States earlier this week has been recovered, officials confirmed. Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a postgraduate student from Karnataka, was pursuing a Master of Science degree at the University of California, Berkeley.
He had been untraceable since Monday, triggering concern among his peers and family members back home. Local police had launched a search operation and appealed to the public for any information that could help locate him. During the search, his backpack — containing his passport and laptop — was reportedly found outside a residence in a neighbourhood of Berkeley, adding to the mystery surrounding his disappearance.
Confirming the tragic development, the Consulate General of India, San Francisco said it had been informed by local authorities about the recovery of his body. The mission expressed profound grief and extended condolences to his family.
In its statement, the Consulate assured that it is working closely with US authorities and is providing all necessary assistance to facilitate the return of his mortal remains to India at the earliest. Officials added that consular representatives remain in touch with the family to guide them through procedural requirements.
Authorities in the United States are continuing their investigation to determine the circumstances leading to his death.
