The tragic death of Sameer Kamath, an Indian American doctoral student at Purdue University, has been confirmed by the coroners office as a suicide. Kamath, who was just 23 years old, was found deceased at Crows Grove Nature Preserve in Indiana with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The preliminary cause of death was determined through a forensic autopsy conducted by the Warren County Coroners Office.Kamath, a US citizen, had recently completed his masters degree in mechanical engineering at Purdue University and was continuing his studies in the same department. The news of his death adds to a series of recent student fatalities at Purdue University, including Neel Acharya, whose death is currently under investigation, and Varun Manish Chheda, who was murdered in 2022.The death of a 23-year-old Indian-American #PurdueUniversity student Sameer Kamath in Indiana has been ruled a suicide, according to a release from a US county coroners office.Sameer Kamath, whose body was found at Crows Grove Nature Preserve in Williamsport, died from a… pic.twitter.com/sb48CriyM2— IANS (@ians_india) February 8, 2024Confirmation by Coroners OfficeWarren County Coroner Justin Brummett confirmed Kamaths cause of death as a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The preliminary findings were released following a forensic autopsy, with toxicology reports pending. Kamaths family has been notified of the results, emphasizing the ongoing investigation involving various local and federal agencies.The Warren County Coroners Office, along with several other local and federal agencies, is actively investigating Kamaths death. The coroners office has stated that Kamaths family has been informed of the preliminary findings. Additionally, while discussions about suicide can be sensitive, its crucial to acknowledge that suicide is preventable and to provide resources for those in need of support.Previous Tragedies at Purdue UniversityKamaths death marks another tragic incident within Purdue Universitys recent history. Just days before Kamaths passing, Neel Acharya, another Indian student, was found dead on campus after going missing. While the cause of Acharyas death is still under investigation, it adds to the somber atmosphere at the university.In 2022, Purdue University faced another devastating loss when Indian-origin student Varun Manish Chheda was murdered by a fellow student. This incident highlighted broader concerns regarding campus safety and the well-being of students.For anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide or in need of assistance, please reach out to the National Suicide Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
