Indian Student Died in Devastating House Fire in New York

In a heartbreaking incident that has sent shockwaves through the Indian diaspora in the United States, 24-year-old Indian student Sahaja Reddy Udumala has died after suffering catastrophic burn injuries in a house fire in Albany, New York. The young student, who had moved to the U.S. with dreams of building a bright future, succumbed to her injuries despite intense medical intervention.

The Consulate General of India in New York expressed profound grief over the Sahaja Reddy Udumala death, calling it an unbearable tragedy for her family and for the wider community of Indian students abroad. In a post on X, the mission conveyed, “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences to her family during this difficult time,” adding that it continues to extend all necessary assistance to her loved ones.

Indian Student: Fire Engulfed Home Within Minutes

The devastating blaze erupted on the morning of December 4, according to the Albany Police Department. When first responders arrived, they discovered the residence completely engulfed in flames, with multiple individuals still trapped inside. Firefighters managed to pull out four adults, each suffering critical injuries. After receiving immediate on-site treatment, all were rushed to a local hospital, with two requiring further transfer to a specialized burn center.

Authorities initially withheld the victim’s identity pending formal notifications, but the family later confirmed through media and community appeals that the deceased was Sahaja Reddy Udumala, a Master’s student pursuing her graduate degree in Albany.

Family Confirms She Suffered 90% Burns

A fundraiser launched by her cousin, Rathna Gopu, revealed the severity of her injuries. According to the family, Sahaja suffered burns covering nearly 90 percent of her body, causing irreversible organ failure despite exhaustive medical efforts.

In a deeply emotional note shared on the fundraising page, Gopu wrote, “Our family experienced an unimaginable tragedy when our beloved cousin, Sahaja Udumala, passed away following a devastating fire accident.” Describing her as “a bright and hardworking student… with a future full of dreams, hope, and promise,” the post highlighted the immense courage she displayed in her final hours.

The family shared that her sudden passing has left them grappling with overwhelming emotional loss and unexpected financial burdens.

Community Steps Forward to Support the Family

The fundraiser set up to cover funeral arrangements, memorial services, repatriation, and essential support for the immediate family has seen an outpouring of compassion. At last count, it had raised over USD 112,266 of the USD 120,000 goal, reflecting the solidarity of communities across the U.S. and India who were moved by Sahaja’s story.