‘We are heartbroken:’ Family of Indian student who died in Ottawa speaks out as speculation grows

Ottawa Police headquarters on Elgin St. is seen in this undated photo. (CTV News Ottawa)

The family of a 21-year-old student from India who died in Ottawa are remembering her as a “bright light” and are confident in the ongoing police investigation into her death.

Vanshika Saini was found dead in the water near Dick Bell Park located on Carling Avenue on April 27, according to police. The Indian High Commission in Ottawa says she went missing several days before her body was found.

A statement provided by the Ottawa Police Service on behalf of Saini’s family on Monday expressed gratitude to the investigators and the wider Indo-Canadian community for their support.

“We are heartbroken by the loss of our beloved daughter, Vanshika. She was a bright light in our lives – kind, compassionate, and full of potential. Her absence leaves a void that can never be filled. We will carry her in our hearts always,” the statement reads.

“From the earliest moments of her disappearance, the Ottawa Police Service has been in regular and consistent contact with our immediate family. We are grateful for the compassion, dedication and sensitivity they have shown, and we are satisfied with the communication and updates we have received throughout this incredibly difficult time.”

The case has received significant media attention locally and internationally, with the Indian High Commission previously urging police to investigate her disappearance. Police have provided few details in the circumstances of her death and have not confirmed whether foul play was involved.

In a statement issued Sunday, Ottawa police said it was aware of concerns from the community regarding how the case was being handled and was in close contact with the family.

“The OPS follows a structured process to evaluate risk and determine the appropriate investigative response. This includes considering a range of factors such as age, medical or mental health needs, and any signs that the individual may be in immediate danger,” police said.

The family says they are seeking privacy while they mourn her loss. They say they believe there is no danger to others in the community.

“Please understand this is deeply personal and while we continue to heal as a family, we are confident that the police have approached this case with thoughtfulness, diligence, and a sincere commitment to keeping us informed from the outset. Some details will remain private out of respect for Vanshika, and out of respect for us,” the family says.

“We’re aware that some individuals have spoken publicly that are not directly involved in our ongoing communications with police. At this time, only the immediate family is receiving updates and speaking with investigators, and we ask that any public commentary reflect that understanding. We kindly ask that people refrain from sharing unverified details, as doing so only deepens an already painful time for our family and compounds our grief.”

The High Commission has said it is in close contact with Saini’s family and local community associations.

The circumstances of her death remain under investigation.

With files from CTV News Ottawa’s Toula Mazloum and the Canadian Press