In a tragic incident, Praveen Kumar Gampa, a 27-year-old student from Telangana, was shot dead in a suspected robbery attempt in Wisconsin on Wednesday.
Gampa, who was pursuing a Master’s degree in Data Science at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, had been living in the United States since 2023. He was working part-time at a local store when the fatal incident occurred.
The news of Gampa’s death reached his family under shocking circumstances. His father, Raghavulu, received a WhatsApp call from his son on Wednesday morning but missed it. When he tried to call back, a stranger answered, claiming to have found Gampa’s phone.
Sensing something was wrong, the family desperately sought more information. Later, friends and US authorities confirmed their worst fears—Gampa had been shot dead.
According to preliminary reports, unidentified attackers opened fire near Gampa’s residence. Some accounts suggest he was shot at a store, while others indicate his body was found with multiple gunshot wounds, as stated by his cousin, Arun.
Indian Consulate Extends Condolences
The Consulate General of India in Chicago expressed deep sorrow over the untimely loss of the young student.
“We are saddened by the untimely death of Praveen Kumar Gampa, a postgraduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The Consulate is in contact with Praveen’s family and the University, helping them with all possible support. Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are with his family and friends,” the consulate posted on X (formerly Twitter).
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This incident adds to a growing list of attacks on Indian students in the United States. In December 2024, 22-year-old Sai Teja, another student from Telangana, was shot dead by armed men at a gas station in Chicago.
We are saddened by the untimely death of Praveen Kumar Gampa, a Post-graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. The Consulate is in contact with Praveen’s family and the University, helping them with all possible support. Our heartfelt condolences and prayers are…
— India in Chicago (@IndiainChicago) March 5, 2025
The Indian community has raised concerns over the safety of international students in the US, urging authorities to ensure stricter security measures to prevent such tragedies.
The investigation into Gampa’s murder is ongoing, with local police examining CCTV footage and pursuing leads on the attackers. Meanwhile, efforts are being made to bring his body back to India for final rites.
With rising incidents of violence against Indian students and professionals, families back home are demanding better protection and swift justice for the victims.
