Austin, Texas, USA: Shocking stabbing on Austin bus: Indian entrepreneur Akshay Gupta killed by fellow passenger. Learn about the incident, arrest, and safety concerns on public transport.
In a tragic event in Austin, Texas, an Indian-origin businessman was fatally stabbed by another Indian passenger while riding a CapMetro bus. The victim, 30-year-old Akshay Gupta, reportedly had no previous connection with the attacker. The suspect, 31-year-old Deepak Kandel, was taken into custody at the scene and faces first-degree murder charges.
The incident took place on May 14, 2025, at approximately 6:45 p.m. The Austin Police Department reported that Gupta was unexpectedly stabbed in the neck during the bus journey in South Austin. Kandel, who was seated next to Gupta, carried out the attack without any apparent provocation. Emergency responders arrived after a “Shoot/Stab” call reporting a stabbing on the bus.
According to police, “Kandel stabbed Gupta in the neck without any warning.” Paramedics provided urgent medical aid, but Gupta was declared dead at 7:30 p.m., as reported by the KXAN news outlet. Kandel, described as homeless, was quickly apprehended by authorities. The motive behind the assault remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing. This case has sparked concerns over public transit safety and calls for enhanced security measures.
Austin Police identified Deepak Kandel through surveillance footage from the bus, which showed that following an emergency stop, Kandel exited the bus calmly with other passengers and fled on foot. Patrol officers found and arrested him less than a mile from the bus’s stop, according to an arrest affidavit. Kandel reportedly told police he attacked Gupta because Gupta resembled his uncle.
Family and friends of Gupta expressed deep sorrow and shock, describing him as a skilled and dedicated professional who had recently moved to the United States to advance his career in the tech field. A memorial service is planned in Austin to commemorate his life.
The Austin community has come together to support Gupta’s family, with local groups offering help and condolences. This tragedy has also sparked conversations around the need for better mental health resources and support systems for homeless individuals in the region.
Austin bus stabbing, Akshay Gupta murder, public transport safety, bus passenger attack news
