PHILADELPHIA/NEW DELHI – Anshul Kuncha, a 28-year-old Indian professional from Telangana, was fatally shot on Saturday night in Philadelphia...
PHILADELPHIA/NEW DELHI – Anshul Kuncha, a 28-year-old Indian professional from Telangana, was fatally shot on Saturday night in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. Kuncha, who held a position at a major multinational corporation, was working a part-time shift as a pizza delivery executive when he was lured into an apparent ambush.
According to local reports and family statements, the victim received a delivery request for a secluded, residential location. Upon arrival, Mr. Kuncha was approached by unidentified assailants—reportedly two masked individuals—who shot him multiple times in the head. The perpetrators fled the scene immediately following the discharge of the weapon.
Law enforcement is investigating the motive, which currently remains unclear. The victim’s family noted that his personal belongings, including cash and valuables, were left untouched, suggesting the incident may not have been a standard robbery. This stands in contrast to a previous experience Mr. Kuncha had in the U.S., where he was the victim of a non-fatal mugging.
The victim's sister, Tanvi, has publicly alleged that the delivery request was a calculated "trap" designed specifically to facilitate the homicide.
"He was requested to deliver to a deserted area where no one was present," she stated. "We are devastated and confused by the intent behind this act. We only seek justice and the swift return of his remains."
In an emotional address to the media, the family cautioned other Indian parents against sending their children to the United States for employment or education, citing rising concerns over safety and targeted violence.
The Consulate General of India in New York has officially intervened, expressing profound condolences to the bereaved family. In a statement released via the X platform, the Consulate confirmed it is in active communication with Philadelphia law enforcement and the Kuncha family to provide all necessary consular assistance.
"We are deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Indian national Anshul Kuncha in Philadelphia. The Consulate is coordinating with local authorities and the family to ensure all possible support is rendered during this difficult period."
The family has appealed to the Ministry of External Affairs to expedite the repatriation of Mr. Kuncha’s remains to India. While local officials have indicated a potential release of the body by Monday, the family is pushing for an accelerated timeline to conduct final rites in their hometown.
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