P Varun Raj, a 24-year-old Indian student pursuing a degree in computer science, was stabbed at a fitness centre in the US state of Indiana over the weekend.
The assault, which took place at a public gym on Sunday morning, has left the young Indian student in critical condition, fighting for his life on life support. Sources familiar with his ongoing treatment have revealed that Varun Raj is battling severe neurological impairment, raising concerns of potential permanent disabilities, partial vision loss, and left-sided weakness.
Varun Raj Indian Student Issue Viral
The assailant, identified as Jordan Andrade, also 24 years old, allegedly stabbed Varun Raj with a knife directly into the temple. The motive behind the attack remains under investigation by the authorities. Following the incident, Andrade was swiftly arrested and is now facing charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and attempted murder.
Due to the grave nature of Varun’s injuries, he has been transferred to Lutheran Hospital in Fort Wayne for specialized care and treatment. Meanwhile, Jordan Andrade, who appeared before Porter Superior Court Judge Jeffrey Clymer, pleaded not guilty to the Level 1 felony and a Level 3 felony charges against him.
The judge has set a substantial bond of USD 500,000 cash and USD 500,000 surety, deeming Andrade a flight risk.
The shocking incident has sent shockwaves through the community and the educational institution where Varun Raj is pursuing his studies. José Padilla, the university’s president, expressed his profound sadness and solidarity, stating, “We are shocked and saddened by the attack on Varun Raj.
At Valparaiso University, we consider each other family, and this incident is horrifying for us all. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of his friends and family.”
Furthermore, Michael Fenton, a spokesperson for the university, affirmed their unwavering support for Varun’s family and the ongoing police investigation, saying, “In addition to our thoughts and prayers, the University and Valpo Community are offering all assistance and resources available to help Varun’s family get to the United States as quickly as possible.”
Community organizations and well-wishers have also rallied in support of Varun Raj. The North American Telugu Society (NATS) initiated a fundraiser on GoFundMe, and by Wednesday night, they had raised over USD 38,000.
NATS shared, “Currently, he is in critical condition, battling for his life in a coma, and his family is facing a harrowing journey filled with uncertainty and overwhelming medical bills. We were contacted by the family with a heavy heart, asking for our support to cover his extensive medical expenses and travel expenses for his parents to the USA.”
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