New York: A 24-year-old Indian student, Sahaja Reddy Udumala, tragically lost her life earlier this week after a fire engulfed her residence in Albany, New York, the Indian Consulate confirmed on Sunday. Reddy, originally from Jangaon district in Telangana, was pursuing her Master’s degree in the United States.
According to her family, Reddy sustained severe burn injuries affecting nearly 90% of her body. Despite intensive medical care, she suffered complete organ failure and passed away. “Sahaja was just 24 years old, a bright and hardworking student with a future full of dreams and hope,” her cousin, Rathna Gopu, said.
The fire reportedly began on Thursday, December 4, in a neighbouring building before spreading to Reddy’s residence while she was asleep. Albany police confirmed that the adult female victim succumbed to injuries sustained in the blaze.
Her family, still reeling from the shock, has launched a fundraiser campaign to cover funeral, memorial, and repatriation expenses. “She fought with all the strength she had, but tragically, her condition worsened, leading to her untimely death,” Gopu added.
The Indian Consulate expressed condolences and pledged support to the family. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Consulate stated, “We are deeply saddened by the untimely demise of Ms. Sahaja Reddy Udumala, an Indian national, who lost her life in a house fire incident in Albany. Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with her family. The Consulate is in touch and providing all possible assistance.”
The community has been urged to contribute to the fundraiser to help Reddy’s family manage the sudden and unforeseen expenses.
