Accidents, robberies, and shootings among top causes of death for Indians in US: MEA data
HYDERABAD: Between 2020 and 2025, around 160 Indian nationals, including more than 100 students, have died in the United States, according to data from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
Of these, 108 deaths were recorded between June 2020 and June 2024, with an additional 10 reported since then. Diaspora organisations, however, believe the real number could be higher as many incidents go unreported.
“Over the past few years, we’ve seen several tragic cases involving students and professionals,” said Vamshi Reddy Kancharakuntla, founder of the Washington Telangana Association. “Road accidents, robberies, and shootings remain the most common causes of death, while drowning during recreational activities is also emerging as a worrying trend. We have helped around 40 families with repatriation to India and funeral arrangements in the US,” he added.
Underreporting remains a major concern
Vishweshwar Reddy Kalavala, founder of the Global Telangana Association, said many young migrants take up unauthorised work in rural areas with higher crime rates, increasing their vulnerability.
Community leaders said that drug overdoses have also become a rising concern. “In the past year, at least 30 overdose cases were reported to the Telugu Association of North America, mostly in California, Texas, and Connecticut. Some students were found unconscious within months of arriving,” said Ashok Kolla, former secretary of the association.
Most incidents occurred in Texas, New Jersey, and California, which together host nearly 60% of the Indian-origin population in the US.
Recent cases involving Telugu students
October 4, 2025: Pole Chandrasekhar (28), a data analytics student from LB Nagar, Hyderabad, was shot dead during a suspected armed robbery at a gas station in Dallas, Texas. The case is under investigation.
September 3, 2025: Mohammed Nizamuddin (32), a student and techie from Telangana, was shot dead by police in Santa Clara, California, after allegedly attacking his roommate with a knife.
January 20, 2025: Ravi Teja (26), an MBA student from Hyderabad, was killed in a shooting incident in Washington. Authorities probed possible hate-crime motives.
Safety advice for Indian students
Immigration lawyer Janetha R. Kancharla urged students to be vigilant. “Avoid high-risk areas, do not stay out late, refrain from bad company, and never drive under the influence of alcohol,” she said.
While the Indian government continues to track such incidents, diaspora groups are calling for greater community outreach, mental health awareness, and coordination with local police and universities.
