Who was Dharmesh Katheeriya? Indian national stabbed to death in Canada

Dharmesh Katheeriya , an Indian national living in Canada, was fatally stabbed in Rockland, a quiet area near Ottawa, on April 4.

The Indian High Commission in Ottawa confirmed the incident in a statement posted on X on Saturday. They also said local police arrested a suspect and the mission was in touch with a local community group to support Dharmesh's family.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of an Indian national in Rockland near Ottawa, due to stabbing. Police has stated a suspect has been taken into custody. We are in close contact through a local community association to provide all possible assistance to the bereaved kin,” the statement read.

We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of an Indian national in Rockland near Ottawa, due to stabbing. Police has stated a suspect has been taken into custody. We are in close contact through a local community association to provide all possible assistance to the bereaved…

— India in Canada (@HCI_Ottawa) April 5, 2025

A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to raise funds for sending his body back to India, organising the funeral, and supporting his grieving family.

“It is with profound sadness and heartbreak that we share the tragic and sudden loss of our dear friend, Dharmesh. On April 4th, 2025, Dharmesh was taken from us in an unprovoked hate crime and senseless attack by a neighbour. The violence that ended his life has left his family, friends, and the entire community in shock and mourning,” the appeal reads.

“This GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help with funeral expenses, legal proceedings, and to provide financial relief during this incredibly difficult time. No amount is too small, and every donation will be deeply appreciated as it helps ease their burden,” the note said.

Who was Dharmesh Katheeriya?

• Dharmesh arrived in Canada from India in 2019 as an international student.
  
• He was on a work permit at the time of his death.
  
• He worked as the manager at Milano Pizza in Rockland.
  
• The restaurant has temporarily shut operations following his death.
  
• Milano Pizza wrote on social media: “It is with deep sadness that we announce the temporary closure of Milano Pizza. Our beloved manager, Dharmesh, tragically passed away in a terrible incident on April 4.”
  
• Dharmesh was the sole breadwinner of his family, according to the information on Go Fund Me.
  
• He had recently gotten married.