Hyderabad man shot dead in US’ Philadelphia during pizza delivery, family says ‘it was a trap’

Hyderabad Man Shot Dead in US Philadelphia During Pizza Delivery, Family Claims It Was a Trap

Hyderabad man shot dead in US Philadelphia – A 28-year-old Hyderabad native, identified as Anshul Kuncha, was fatally shot in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, while delivering pizza in the United States. The incident, which occurred during the night of June 5-6, has sparked outrage among his family, who allege the attack was a premeditated trap. According to reports, Anshul was working as a delivery driver for a local pizzeria when he was ambushed by unidentified assailants, marking a tragic chapter in the story of a man who had moved to the US four years ago for academic pursuits.

Family’s Grief and Accusations of a Planned Attack

Anshul’s family, based in Gundlapochampally, Telangana, shared their account with news agency PTI, revealing that the attack was not a random act. His sister, Tanvi, described the incident as a calculated move, stating that her brother was lured into an abandoned area under the pretense of a routine delivery. “We were told he was delivering pizza in an abandoned area, and later we learned it was a decoy,” Tanvi explained, emphasizing the family’s belief that the shooting was intentional.

“It was a trap. They took my brother and killed him. I don’t know what they gained or what intentions they had,” Tanvi claimed.

She further noted that no belongings were taken from Anshul, suggesting the attackers aimed to eliminate him without provocation. “This is a message to all the parents who are sending their children to the US. Do not send your kids to the US,” she added, highlighting the emotional toll of the tragedy on her family.

Background and Life in the US

Anshul Kuncha, who had moved to the US around four years ago, worked for a multinational corporation in North Philadelphia. Despite his professional life, he took on weekend pizza delivery jobs to supplement his income, a decision that led to his fateful encounter. His sister revealed that Anshul had previously been robbed by a group of men who stole his chain, phone, and cash, a memory that now underscores the family’s fears of a targeted attack.

“He didn’t want to go to the US, but we sent him… and now look what he ended up in,” Tanvi said, expressing deep sorrow over her brother’s death. “This is a message to all the parents who are sending their children to the US. Do not send your kids to the US.”

The family’s account paints a picture of a man who was struggling to adapt to life in the US, balancing a demanding job with the need to support his family back home. His death has intensified their calls for increased security for Indian workers abroad, particularly those in vulnerable jobs.

Consulate’s Response and Ongoing Support

The Consulate General of India in New York confirmed the incident via a post on ‘X’ on Saturday, expressing deep grief over the sudden passing of Anshul Kuncha, an Indian national. In their statement, the consulate highlighted their commitment to supporting the family and ensuring the necessary procedures for repatriating his remains. “We are in contact with the family and providing all necessary support,” the statement read, underscoring the diplomatic efforts to address the tragedy.

While the consulate has not yet disclosed the cause of the shooting, they have assured the family that the investigation is ongoing. The incident has drawn attention to the safety of Indian workers in the US, particularly those in service industries. Anshul’s family is now urging the Ministry of External Affairs to expedite the return of his body, with the remains expected to be handed over on Monday.

Community and Public Reaction

News of Anshul’s death has spread rapidly, prompting reactions from the Indian community in Philadelphia and beyond. Local residents described him as a quiet, hardworking individual who had always dreamed of returning to India. “He was a good neighbor, always friendly and helpful,” said one acquaintance, adding that the attack has left the community in shock.

Meanwhile, social media platforms have become a hub for discussions about the incident. Hashtags like #HyderabadManShotDeadInUS and #PhiladelphiaTragedy have trended, with many users sharing stories of Indian workers facing similar risks. The family’s claims of a trap have also fueled debates about the safety of Indian nationals in the US, especially those working in low-income jobs. “This is not just a personal loss—it’s a loss for all of us,” said a local activist, calling for stricter measures to protect Indian workers.

Investigation and Police Response

Authorities in Philadelphia have launched an investigation into the shooting, with police stating that they are examining surveillance footage and interviewing witnesses. The victim’s delivery route and the location of the ambush are key points of focus, as investigators seek to determine whether the attack was part of a larger pattern. “We are working closely with the family to gather all available information,” said a police spokesperson, adding that the case is being treated as a homicide.

While the motive for the attack remains unclear, the family’s allegations of a trap suggest possible links to a personal vendetta or organized crime. The incident has also raised questions about the safety of Indian workers in the US, particularly those who may be in isolated areas during late-night deliveries. “This highlights the need for better support systems for foreign workers,” noted a local representative, urging the government to prioritize their safety in the face of such tragedies.