2025-05-21T02:39:07Z

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A tragic incident unfolded on May 14, 2025, when Akshay Gupta, a 30-year-old Indian-origin entrepreneur, was fatally stabbed by a fellow Indian on a public bus in Austin, Texas. According to local police reports, the attack occurred without any apparent provocation, leaving the community and authorities in shock.

On that fateful day, Gupta was seated at the back of the bus when Deepak Kandel, the alleged assailant, launched a sudden attack, stabbing him multiple times. Eyewitnesses described a terrifying scene as the bus, which was carrying around 12 passengers at the time, became the site of violence. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene after receiving calls about the stabbing, but despite their efforts to save him, Gupta was pronounced dead shortly after, at approximately 7:30 PM.

Following the attack, Kandel exited the bus calmly, mingling with other passengers before fleeing the scene on foot. The police swiftly launched a manhunt and apprehended him less than a mile away from where the bus pulled over. During the arrest, Kandel reportedly confessed to the crime, claiming that he had acted out of a misguided association, stating that Gupta resembled his uncle.

Kandel has a history of previous arrests and has been released multiple times on misdemeanor charges, raising concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of the justice system in handling repeat offenders. He has since been charged with first-degree murder and is currently being held at the Travis County Jail.

Akshay Gupta was not just an entrepreneur; he was a visionary who co-founded FootBit, a health-tech startup in Austin that focused on improving mobility and balance for senior citizens. His innovative approach towards enhancing the quality of life for older adults has been widely recognized. In addition to FootBit, Gupta co-founded ASG Research LLC in 2024, further establishing his footprint in the technology sector.

Gupta was an accomplished individual with an impressive academic background. He earned his master's degree from Penn State University, where his groundbreaking work even caught the attention of industry leaders, including Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, with whom he had the opportunity to engage. His untimely death has left a significant void in the tech community and among those who knew him.

As the investigation continues, the Austin community is left grappling with the senseless nature of this tragedy. The impact of this incident extends beyond the immediate loss felt by Gupta's family and friends; it raises broader questions about safety and violence in public spaces.