TRAGEDY IN CALIFORNIA: Missing Indian Student from Karnataka Found Dead Near Berkeley Hills

California: In a heartbreaking development, a 22-year-old Indian student studying at the prestigious University of California, Berkeley has been found dead days after he was reported missing. The confirmation came from the Consulate General of India, San Francisco on Sunday, bringing a tragic end to an intense search operation.

Saketh Sreenivasaiah had been missing since February 9. According to officials, local law enforcement authorities recovered his body after days of investigation in the Berkeley area. The Indian Consulate expressed deep sorrow over the incident and conveyed condolences to his grieving family.

In its official communication, the Consulate stated that it is in constant touch with the bereaved family and local authorities. It assured that all possible assistance, including coordination for documentation and the repatriation of the mortal remains to India, would be extended without delay.

Last Seen Near Lake Anza
Before his disappearance, Saketh was last spotted near Lake Anza, located in the Berkeley hills. Local media reports indicated that his backpack — containing his passport and laptop — was later discovered at a nearby residence, raising concerns and intensifying the search efforts.

Authorities have not yet publicly disclosed the exact cause of death. Investigations are ongoing, and officials are expected to release further details after preliminary inquiries are completed.

Academic Journey from IIT Madras to UC Berkeley
Originally from Karnataka, Saketh had an impressive academic record. He completed his BTech in Chemical Engineering from Indian Institute of Technology Madras in 2025. Known for his academic excellence, he later secured admission to pursue a master’s degree in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at UC Berkeley.

Friends and classmates described him as focused, bright, and driven. Following his disappearance, his roommate Baneet Singh had taken to social media platforms seeking public help. In an emotional appeal, he requested anyone with information about Saketh’s whereabouts to contact him or local authorities, stating that they were working closely with the police during the difficult period.

Karnataka Government Sought Diplomatic Support
As news of his disappearance spread, Karnataka Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh had written to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, urging swift diplomatic intervention to support search efforts. The Indian Consulate had remained actively engaged with local police throughout the investigation.

The tragic news has sent shockwaves through student communities both in India and the United States. Many have expressed grief over the untimely death of a promising young scholar whose journey was filled with ambition and achievement.