A 30-year-old Indian tech professional, Mohammed Nizamuddin from Mahabubnagar, Telangana, was shot dead by police in Santa Clara, California, after he allegedly stabbed his roommate earlier this month. The incident occurred on September 3, and is now under investigation by local authorities.
Police version of events
According to the Santa Clara Police Department (SCPD), officers responded to a 911 emergency call about a stabbing inside a residential property. Upon arrival, they found Nizamuddin armed with a knife and allegedly pinning down his injured roommate.
“SCPD officers arrived, encountered the suspect, and were involved in an Officer Involved Shooting. The suspect was transported to a local hospital where they were later pronounced deceased. The victim was transported to a local hospital and is being treated for their injuries,” the police statement read.
Officials confirmed that the Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office and SCPD are conducting a joint investigation, calling it an active and open case. Authorities have said further updates will follow.
Family alleges racial discrimination
Nizamuddin’s family, however, has raised serious concerns, alleging racial discrimination in the handling of the case. According to them, it was Nizamuddin himself who called police for help before being fatally shot.
They also highlighted that he had previously spoken out about racial harassment, wage fraud, and wrongful termination at his workplace in California, questioning whether those complaints and experiences may have influenced the events leading up to his death.
Background
Nizamuddin had completed his Master’s degree in Computer Science from a Florida college before moving to Santa Clara to work at a technology firm. Described by relatives as a quiet and religious person, his sudden death has sparked outrage in Telangana and among the Indian diaspora in the U.S.
The family has demanded a thorough probe into the circumstances, insisting that the incident be investigated beyond the official version.
