Aryan Reddy, a 23-year-old Indian student from Kansas State University, tragically passed away on November 13 in Atlanta, Georgia, during his birthday celebrations. The accident occurred when Reddy, who had recently purchased a hunting rifle after acquiring a U.S. gun license, accidentally discharged the firearm while cleaning it on his birthday. Originally from Telangana’s Bhuvanagiri district, his family now resides in Uppal.
According to officials, Reddy’s friends rushed to his aid after hearing the gunshot and found him critically injured. Despite being transported to a nearby hospital, he was pronounced dead, with the bullet having struck his chest. His body is expected to be repatriated to his hometown later tonight, leaving his family devastated.
Speaking about the incident, his father, Sudarshan Reddy, urged parents to consider the risks of firearm ownership among students abroad, emphasizing the need for caution to prevent such tragedies.
This incident adds to the broader conversation about gun violence in the U.S., where calls for stricter gun control measures remain a contentious issue. Advocates continue to push for mandatory training, secure storage laws, and comprehensive background checks to address firearm-related incidents.
In September, the Biden-Harris administration took significant steps to tackle gun violence, introducing an executive order aimed at addressing emerging threats such as machine-gun conversion devices and untraceable 3D-printed firearms. This directive also includes improved guidance for schools on active shooter drills, aiming to reduce psychological harm while enhancing preparedness.
During a press conference on Friday, United States President Joe Biden reiterated the need for strict action, advocating for the reinstatement of an assault weapons ban and restrictions on high-capacity magazines in the entire state. Stef Feldman, director of the White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, also added that the goal is to enhance school safety while minimizing trauma caused by poorly executed drills.
