Indian-origin student Saketh Sreenivasaiah found dead in US: Friend says he ‘stopped caring about life’

February 15, 2026

New Delhi: Indian-American student Saketh Sreenivasaiah, who was studying at the University of California, Berkeley, went missing near Lake Anza, California. His body was recovered after a five-day search operation.

The search involved sonar, drones, and divers working under the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office.

Personal belongings found near the lake

The student’s personal belongings were found near the lake near the Park Hill area, leading the search in that direction.

Following the confirmation of his death, Saketh’s roommate and friend, Baneet Singh, shared an emotional post on LinkedIn. He stated that according to police, Saketh died by drowning in the lake. He also said that he was working with authorities to obtain emergency visas to bring Saketh’s family from India to the United States.

“The life of an international student is very difficult,” he wrote.

Changed Behavior Over the Past Two Weeks

According to a friend, Saket’s behavior had changed over the past two weeks. He began eating less and avoiding people. He said Saket had invited him to go to the lake on January 21st, but they couldn’t go.

Recalling the Last Conversation

Recalling the last conversation, Baneet said that one day, Saket was returning from class wearing a red bathrobe. When asked, he said, “I’ve stopped caring.” The friend wrote that he was often jovial, but now it’s clear he was struggling internally.

According to his LinkedIn profile, Saket was pursuing a Master’s in Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering.

The investigation has been handed over to the Contra Costa County Coroner’s Office.