As the university collaborates with Varun's family, they continue to provide assistance and support during this challenging time. A remembrance and memorial service for Varun is scheduled on campus for November 16.
A tragic incident unfolded at a fitness center in Indiana, where 24-year-old Indian student Varun Raj Pucha, a Computer Science student at Valparaiso University, was fatally stabbed in the head by 24-year-old assailant Jordan Andrade on October 29. Despite the university's efforts and the support extended, Varun succumbed to his injuries, as reported by PTI
Valparaiso University expressed their sorrow, acknowledging the loss within their campus community. The assailant, Jordan Andrade, has been apprehended and is currently facing charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and attempted murder.
As the university collaborates with Varun's family, they continue to provide assistance and support during this challenging time. A remembrance and memorial service for Varun is scheduled on campus for November 16.
Varun, pursuing an MS in Computer Science, had left for the US in August 2022, with plans to return to his home in Telangana's Khammam after completing his course next year. Unfortunately, his cousin revealed that Varun's condition did not improve after the incident, and he passed away with only movement on one side of his body.
Anile Balleboyne, one of Varun's few relatives in the US, shared that Varun had aspirations of a good education when he arrived in Indiana about a year and a half ago. She expressed the difficulty of the unexpected tragedy, emphasizing Varun's dreams to provide financial and emotional support to his family.
In a gesture of solidarity, the North American Telugu Society has raised USD 90,000 through GoFundMe for Varun's grieving family. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the unpredictability of life and the impact it can have on individuals pursuing their aspirations away from home.