Indian man killed in Philadelphia after delivering pizza to vacant apartment; Consulate extends support to family

The Consulate General of India in New York has expressed condolences following the death of an Indian national, Anshul Kuncha, who was shot dead in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

In a statement posted on X, the Consulate said it was "deeply saddened by the untimely demise" of Kuncha and was in contact with his family.

"We are deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Mr. Anshul Kuncha, an Indian national in Philadelphia, PA. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences to his family during this difficult time. The Consulate is in touch with Anshul’s family and is extending all possible assistance," the embassy said.

Shot after pizza delivery

According to a report by The Times of India, the 28-year-old was shot shortly after delivering pizzas to the Raymond Rosen Homes housing complex in North Philadelphia after midnight on Friday.

Police said Kuncha was found with a gunshot wound to the head on Edgeley Street at around 12.30 am. He was taken to a hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Chief Inspector Scott Small of the Philadelphia Police Department told local media that investigators identified the victim through pizza boxes recovered at the scene and later confirmed that Kuncha worked for Pete's Pizza, TOI reported.

Investigators found three spent shell casings near the victim, indicating that the shooter or shooters were standing very close to him at the time of the attack, according to police.

The delivery order had reportedly been placed for a vacant apartment unit within the housing complex. Officers discovered three pizza boxes and a delivery bag inside the vacant apartment, suggesting that Kuncha had completed the delivery before the shooting occurred.

Police also recovered the victim's vehicle nearby, with a pizza warmer still inside.

According to The Times of India report, surveillance footage from cameras operated by the Philadelphia Housing Authority showed two individuals in dark clothing following Kuncha before the incident. One of them appeared to be carrying a dark backpack. The actual shooting was not captured on camera.

No arrests have been made so far. However, investigators said they are pursuing a lead linked to the phone number used to place the pizza order.

(With inputs from TOI)