A wave of grief and sympathy has swept across communities following the tragic death of 21-year-old Harsimrat Randhawa, an international student from India who was fatally shot by a stray bullet while waiting at a Hamilton bus stop on Thursday evening.
Randhawa, a student at Mohawk College, was preparing to head to work when she was struck by a bullet during a nearby shooting incident. According to Hamilton police, she was an innocent bystander caught in the crossfire and had no connection to the violence.
Hamilton Mayor Andrea Howarth expressed her deep sorrow over the incident, calling it a “senseless act of violence” that has left the city shaken. “My heart breaks for Harsimrat’s family and all who knew her,” she said, offering her condolences and support.
The Indian Consulate in Toronto also shared a message of condolence, saying officials are in close contact with the victim’s family and are providing all necessary assistance during this difficult time. “We are deeply saddened by the loss,” the consulate stated.
Paul Armstrong, President of Mohawk College, said the school is mourning the loss of a promising young life. “This is an extremely tragic and heartbreaking moment for our entire college community,” he said. “Harsimrat had so much potential and a bright future ahead.”
Police believe the shooting involved two vehicles — a black Mercedes SUV and a white sedan. Investigators say a passenger in the Mercedes opened fire on the occupants of the sedan. Following the gunfire, the sedan fled north on Upper James Street, while the Mercedes headed west on South Bend Road.
The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist with the case.
