Indian Student Neelam Shinde in Coma After California Hit-and-Run
In a tragic incident, 35-year-old Indian student Neelam Shinde from Maharashtra’s Satara district was critically injured in a hit-and-run accident in Sacramento, California, on February 14, 2025. While taking an evening walk, she was struck from behind by a speeding vehicle, resulting in severe injuries, including fractures to both legs, her left arm, and a traumatic brain injury that left her comatose. Neelam is currently receiving treatment at UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento.
Upon learning of the accident, Neelam’s family faced challenges in obtaining U.S. visas to be by her side and provide necessary medical consents.
The Indian government intervened, and on February 28, 2025, the U.S. embassy granted visas to her father, Tanaji Shinde, and brother after an interview at the Mumbai Consulate. The Indian Consulate in San Francisco has been in constant touch with the hospital and Neelam’s family, offering all possible assistance.
The driver involved in the accident has been apprehended by local authorities.
Neelam, an only child, had previously earned a BE in Computer Science from Sinhgad Institute in Pune and completed a one-year internship at NASA.
She was in her final semester of an MS in Engineering at California State University. Her father, a retired bank employee, expressed deep concern and gratitude for the support received. Baramati MP Supriya Sule and former Karad North MLA Balasaheb Patil played pivotal roles in expediting the visa process for the family.
This incident highlights the challenges faced by families of overseas students during emergencies and underscores the importance of timely support and intervention. Our thoughts are with Neelam and her family during this difficult time, and we hope for her swift recovery.
