Missing Indian student, 21, found dead in Canada park

By Hoang Vu May 1, 2025 | 03:00 am PT

Vanshika Saini, a student from India, has been confirmed dead after her body is found in a park in Ottawa River. Photo courtesy of Indian High Commission in Ottawa

Police in Canada are investigating the death of a 21-year-old female student whose body was found in a park on the shore of the Ottawa River on Sunday.

The Indian High Commission in Ottawa has identified her as Vanshika Saini, a student from India. She had been missing for several days before her body was discovered, CTV News reported.

Saini had moved to Ottawa two and a half years ago to pursue her dreams of higher education. On the evening of April 25, she left her residence to inspect a rental room.

When she failed to appear for an important exam the next morning, her friend attempted to contact her, but her phone was switched off, The Mirror reported.

The cause of death remains uncertain, and an investigation is ongoing.

The Indian High Commission expressed its deep sorrow in a social media post, stating that it is in close contact with her family and local community associations.

The High Commission had previously shared links to letters from the local Hindu community urging Ottawa police to thoroughly investigate the student's disappearance.