Anshul Kunchas, a 27-year-old Indian national pursuing an MBA and working as a pizza delivery driver, was fatally shot in Philadelphia on June 14, 2024. Following the tragedy, Kunchas's sister, Preeti, issued a public statement warning other Indian families against sending their children to the United States, describing her brother's murder as a "trap" and a "decoy."

Kunchas was found deceased outside an apartment building on North 6th Street in North Philadelphia, near his running vehicle, shortly after 11:00 PM local time. He sustained a gunshot wound to the head. Philadelphia Police Department investigators suspect the incident was a robbery attempt, as his car's engine was still running and food items were found inside. No arrests have been reported in connection with the case.

Kunchas, originally from Sikar, Rajasthan, India, had arrived in the United States in 2021 to pursue an MBA degree at a private university in New York. He recently relocated to Philadelphia and was working multiple jobs, including food delivery for Domino's, to manage his living expenses and repay a substantial education loan of approximately Rs 35 lakh (equivalent to about $42,000 USD). His pursuit of higher education and employment in the US was part of an effort to financially support himself and his family.

His sister, Preeti, expressed profound grief and anger, stating, "Do not send your children to the US. It's a trap, it's a decoy." She highlighted the significant financial sacrifice made by their family, including taking out loans, to fund his education. The family's mother is reported to be heartbroken by the loss.

  • Incident Date and Time: June 14, 2024, approximately 11:00 PM EST.
  • Location: North 6th Street, North Philadelphia.
  • Victim's Age: 27 years old.
  • Victim's Origin: Sikar, Rajasthan, India.
  • Occupation: MBA student, employed as a food delivery driver.
  • Financial Burden: Carried an education loan of approximately Rs 35 lakh (around $42,000 USD).
  • Investigation Status: Philadelphia Police Department is conducting an ongoing investigation.
  • Arrests: No arrests have been publicly announced as of the latest reports.
  • Family's Request: Kunchas's family is seeking assistance for the repatriation of his body to India. A cousin is reportedly attempting to obtain an emergency visa to travel to the US to facilitate this process.

The incident underscores the challenges and dangers that international students and workers can face while living abroad. The ongoing investigation by the Philadelphia Police Department aims to identify and apprehend those responsible for Kunchas's death. The family continues its efforts to repatriate his remains, while the emotional plea from his sister resonates within the Indian diaspora and beyond, raising concerns about safety for individuals pursuing opportunities in foreign countries.