A 22-year-old Indian student pursuing postgraduate studies in the United States has been found dead, just days after he was reported missing, according to the Indian Consulate.
Saketh Sreenivasaiah, originally from Karnataka and enrolled in a Master of Science programme at the University of California, Berkeley, went missing on February 9, 2026. Local authorities launched a search in the surrounding areas, including regions near Lake Anza and the Berkeley Hills, where he was last seen approximately a kilometre from the campus.
The Berkeley Scanner reported that his backpack—containing his passport and laptop—was discovered on a doorstep in the Park Hills neighbourhood, prompting further concern and police appeals for public information.
On February 14, 2026 (local time), the Consulate General of India in San Francisco announced the grim development via a post on X. “The Consulate deeply regrets to inform that local police have confirmed the recovery of the body of the missing Indian student, Saketh Sreenivasaiah,” the statement read.
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The consulate expressed profound condolences to the family and loved ones during this difficult period. It affirmed its commitment to offering comprehensive support, including liaison with local law enforcement and facilitation of arrangements to repatriate the mortal remains to India as soon as possible. Consular officers are maintaining direct communication with the family to assist with all necessary formalities and services.
The incident has cast a shadow over the Indian student community in the Bay Area, highlighting the vulnerabilities faced by international students far from home. No further details on the circumstances of the death have been released by authorities at this time, and the investigation continues.
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