Grief and Questions After Indian Student Found Dead in California

Following a comprehensive investigation, authorities and the Indian Consulate have confirmed that Saketh Sreenivasaiah, a 22-year-old Indian student, was found dead in California six days after going missing near the University of California, Berkeley.

The startling revelation has spurred fresh conversations among parents, academic associations, and students in India and abroad over the security and welfare of overseas students studying far from home.

Disappearance Sparks Urgent Search

Sreenivasaiah, a native of Karnataka, was pursuing a master’s degree in chemical and biomolecular engineering at UC Berkeley’s prestigious program.

He was last spotted on February 9 around a kilometer away from the school, near the Berkeley Hills and Lake Anza areas, according to local authorities. After he failed to respond to calls or messages, classmates and roommates reported him missing, prompting law enforcement to launch a citywide search.

Authorities conducted a thorough search in and around Berkeley Hills, Tilden Regional Park, and Lake Anza with the help of volunteers and the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD).

Backpack Found, Hope for Breakthrough

When a backpack containing Sreenivasaiah’s laptop and passport was found at a residence in Tilden Regional Park, the hunt became even more urgent.

In messages that filled social media and online forums, friends, classmates, and volunteers reported sightings, offered help, and asked authorities to intensify the search.

Body Recovered, Consulate Confirms

Regretfully, after six days of searching, local police discovered Sreenivasaiah’s body. The Indian Consulate General in San Francisco confirmed the discovery, expressed “deep regret,” and offered their deepest sympathy to his family.

Officials pledged to work with local authorities and provide their full support throughout the investigation, including assisting with the return of his remains to India.

Academic Journey and Achievements

Prior to enrolling at UC Berkeley, Sreenivasaiah graduated with a Bachelor of Technology (BTech) in Chemical Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras in 2025. He was well-known there for his strong academic credentials and scientific interests.

He took part in the Product Development Programme (PDP) of Berkeley’s Master of Science program, which ended in May 2026.

He was a bright, motivated student who was passionate about deep-tech innovation in materials science and engineering, according to his friends and classmates.

Family, Community in Grief

Sreenivasaiah’s family back in India is saddened by the news. He had strong Bengaluru ancestry and was seen by his loved ones as a brilliant young genius with a promising future.

In order to help international students cope with stress, loneliness, and the challenges of living abroad, local community leaders and student organizations have expressed their profound regret and advocated for better support systems.

Authorities Continue Inquiry

Although the immediate search is done, police and local authorities are still investigating the circumstances surrounding Sreenivasaiah’s death and disappearance. No official cause of death has been disclosed as of yet.

The tragic loss has sparked more in-depth discussions on safety net programs and mental health awareness for international students, highlighting the need for readily available crisis resources and support for young people studying overseas.