Introduction
Two Indian students studying in the United States lost their lives in a fatal car accident in Pennsylvania last week. The victims, Saurav Prabhakar (23) and Manav Patel (20), were enrolled at Cleveland State University in Ohio. The Indian Consulate General in New York has confirmed the incident and is providing support to the bereaved families.
The Fatal Accident
According to the Pennsylvania State Police, the crash occurred around 7 am on May 10 near the Reading Interchange in East Cocalico Township, Lancaster County. The students’ vehicle veered off the eastbound lanes of the Pennsylvania Turnpike, struck a tree, and then crashed into a bridge.
Saurav Prabhakar was driving the vehicle at the time, while Manav Patel was the passenger. Both were pronounced dead at the scene by the local coroner, who attributed their deaths to multiple traumatic injuries. The crash has been ruled accidental.
Unidentified Third Passenger
A third, as yet unidentified, occupant of the vehicle survived the crash and was taken to Reading Hospital. Their current condition remains unknown, according to local media reports including LancasterOnline.
Indian Consulate Responds
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Consulate General of India in New York expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy:
“Deeply saddened to learn about the unfortunate road accident in which two Indian students from Cleveland State University, Manav Patel and Saurav Prabhakar, lost their lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families during this difficult time. The Consulate is in touch with the families and has assured them of all possible assistance.”
Support for the Grieving Families
The Consulate has assured the families of both students of full consular support, including assistance with repatriation of remains, paperwork, and any other required help. This outreach has been especially important for Indian communities living abroad, who rely heavily on government support in such critical times.
Remembering the Victims
Both Saurav and Manav had come to the US to pursue higher education and were described as bright, hardworking students by peers and university contacts. Their untimely deaths have left the Indian student community in Cleveland State and beyond in deep shock.
Conclusion
This tragic accident serves as a grim reminder of the risks young international students face while living far from home. As investigations continue, support systems including university outreach and consular assistance are vital to help families navigate the tragedy. The global Indian community mourns this heartbreaking loss.
For more diaspora-related updates, visit our Indian Diaspora News section.
According to a report by NDTV, the accident occurred near the Reading Interchange in East Cocalico Township, Pennsylvania.
