US police have arrested a man for hitting Indian student Neelam Shinde with his car in San Francisco, California, and then fleeing the scene, according to reports.
The Sacramento Police Department confirmed that the accused, 58-year-old Lawrence Gallows, was arrested after his vehicle struck Neelam Shinde on February 14 on Fair Oaks Boulevard. Police officials said they worked continuously to identify and locate him.
The incident happened just before 7 pm, and by the time police arrived, the driver had already fled, leaving Shinde with serious injuries on the road.
Neelam Shinde’s condition
Neelam Shinde, a postgraduate student at California State University, is originally from Satara, Maharashtra. She was hit from behind, causing severe injuries to both her arms and legs. She also suffered a brain injury, requiring emergency surgery, and has been in a coma since the accident.
After the accident, Shinde’s family applied for a US visa within 48 hours, but they were initially given a visa slot for next year. Following intervention by NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule, the Ministry of External Affairs expedited the visa process, allowing the family to travel to the US.
Support from Indian authorities
The Consulate General of India in San Francisco posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating:
"We have been in constant touch with the hospital, family, and friends for the last several days and have been providing all possible assistance. We will continue to support her and her family."
Authorities and the Indian community in the US are closely monitoring Shinde’s condition, while legal action is underway against the accused.
Also Read: India asks US for 'emergency visa' for injured student’s kin
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