The Indian Consulate in New York said on Monday that preliminary investigation into the death of an Indian student, reportedly discovered deceased in a forest in the US state of Massachusetts last week, has ruled out any foul play.

Abhijeeth Paruchuru, hailing from Andhra Pradesh and a student of Boston University, was found inside an abandoned car by local law enforcement, as per reports from local media.

Expressing deep sorrow over Paruchuru’s “unfortunate demise,” the Consulate conveyed on X: “Mr. Paruchuru’s parents, residing in Connecticut, are in direct contact with investigators. Initial inquiries indicate no evidence of foul play.”

The Consulate facilitated the necessary documentation and repatriation of Paruchuru’s remains to India. “We are maintaining communication with local authorities and the Indian-American community regarding this matter,” the Consulate added.

Beginning this year, a series of mysterious deaths have raised concerns about the security and safety of Indian students in the US, with the latest incident bringing the toll to nine.

Earlier this month, the Ministry of External Affairs stated that its consulates in the US have reached out to Indian students, assuring them of all possible assistance in case of any difficulties.

“We have engaged with our students there, providing guidance and urging them to promptly contact either the embassy or the consulates in case of any issues or emergencies so that we can provide them with better assistance,” commented External Affairs Ministry spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal.

The White House emphasized in February that there is no justification for violence based on race or gender, affirming that the US is diligently working to prevent and disrupt attacks on Indians and Indian-origin students. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar reiterated that the welfare of Indian students abroad remains a top priority for the government.