GUWAHATI: A 21-year-old student from Punjab, India, was killed in a shooting incident in Hamilton, Canada, on Thursday evening. Harsimrat Randhawa, a student at Mohawk College, was reportedly waiting at a bus stop around 7:30 p.m. when she was struck by a bullet in what police believe was a targeted shooting between two vehicles. Authorities confirmed she was not the intended target.
Reports quoting Hamilton police said, gunfire erupted from a black Mercedes SUV directed at a white sedan. Randhawa was caught in the crossfire and sustained a gunshot wound to the chest. She was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to her injuries. Both vehicles fled the scene immediately after the incident.
The shooting also damaged the back window of a nearby home where residents were watching television. No injuries were reported from the residence.
As the homicide investigation continues, police are seeking public assistance for any information or surveillance footage that could help identify the suspects. No arrests have been made so far.
The incident has sparked concerns about public safety, particularly among the local and international student communities.
The Consulate General of India in Toronto expressed condolences on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “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.” The Consulate added it is in close contact with Randhawa’s family and providing all necessary support.
Mohawk College also released a statement to CBC News, expressing deep sorrow over the loss. “Our thoughts are with her family and friends at this difficult time. As a member of the Mohawk College community, 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.”
The investigation remains ongoing.