Saketh Sreenivasaiah was a 22-year-old Indian graduate student studying chemical and biomolecular engineering at the University of California, Berkeley. He completed his B.Tech. in chemical engineering at IIT Madras. Friends described him as bright and focused. He pursued research interests in advanced materials. Authorities recovered his body at Lake Anza after he went missing. Officials have not released the cause of death.
Early life and academics
Saketh grew up in Karnataka, India. He earned a BTech in chemical engineering from IIT Madras. Then he won admission to a master’s program at the University of California, Berkeley. He worked on lab projects and held internships related to materials and process engineering. His academic record and research interests made him a promising young scientist.
Timeline — disappearance to recovery
• February 9, 2026: Reports show Saketh was last seen near the UC Berkeley campus.
• Following days: Friends and campus contacts reported him missing, and police began a search.
• Investigators found personal items, including a backpack with his passport and laptop, near campus.
• February 14–15, 2026: Authorities recovered his body at Lake Anza in the Berkeley Hills.
• The Indian Consulate confirmed the death and offered consular assistance. Officials have not publicly disclosed the cause or additional forensic details.
What the authorities and the consulate said
Local law enforcement in Alameda County handled the search and recovery. The Consulate General of India in San Francisco confirmed consular support and contact with the family. Investigations remain active. At present, officials have not provided a conclusive cause of death. The consulate will assist with repatriation and liaison work.
Friends and a roommate reported changes in Saketh’s behaviour in the weeks before he went missing. They said he ate less and withdrew socially. Meanwhile, classmates and faculty expressed shock and grief. Social media and student groups called for clear updates and support for international students.
Broader context — international students and well-being
International students face stressors that include distance from family, academic pressure, and cultural adjustment. Therefore, mental-health outreach and accessible campus resources matter. UC Berkeley and other universities offer counselling and crisis services; however, students and communities often request clearer, faster communication during emergencies.
The consulate coordinates with local authorities and the family on repatriation. The university typically provides support for grieving students and works with campus services to notify those affected. Meanwhile, friends and classmates may organize vigils or memorials.
Key takeaways
Saketh was a young engineer with strong academic credentials who studied at top institutions in India and the U.S. He went missing on February 9, 2026, and authorities recovered his body at Lake Anza days later. Investigations continue and the cause of death remains undisclosed. The consulate assists the family and the university supports the campus community.
This story centers on a young life cut short and a family in shock. If you are a student or friend affected by this, reach out to campus counselling, local crisis lines, or your embassy. Small acts of support — a message, a meal, time — help grieving people more than words often do.
