What to know
- University of Toronto Scarborough students launched a petition calling for increased campus security following the fatal shooting of third-year student Shivank Avasthi on Dec. 23.
- The petition highlights gaps in surveillance, inadequate lighting, and a limited visible security presence, and has garnered over 16,000 signatures.
- Supporters emphasized the need for more cameras, 24/7 patrols, and emergency posts to deter crime and make students feel safe.
- Toronto police announced the arrest of a suspect, charging 28-year-old Babatunde Afuwape with first-degree murder in connection with Avasthi’s death.
Students at the University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC) have launched a petition demanding enhanced security measures, just weeks after a student was shot and killed on campus.
The petition emerged days after 20-year-old third-year student Shivank Avasthi was shot and killed on the Highland Creek Trail on Dec. 23.
“Recent events have underscored the urgent need for enhanced security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, staff, and visitors,” the petition states.
Since its launch, the petition has garnered more than 1,600 signatures. It highlights that a lack of security cameras in certain areas increases the risk of criminal activity and contributes to an unsettling environment for students.
Many petitioners also cited inadequate lighting and the limited visibility of security personnel as ongoing safety concerns. Students are now calling for immediate action.
“It is imperative that the administration invest in installing modern surveillance systems and increase the number of security personnel patrolling the campus on a consistent, 24/7 basis,” the petition reads. “By increasing surveillance coverage and ensuring a robust security presence, we can foster a safer environment where students can focus on their studies and campus life without fear.”
Supporters have left messages alongside their signatures reinforcing the call for change.
“In light of recent tragic events, students should feel as though the university is there to protect and support them. An increase of red emergency posts, security cameras, and lighting can really help deter any violent acts,” wrote a supporter named Sharon.
“I cannot see any security cameras aimed at Parking Lot J, especially the section closest to Morningside. People’s cars have been broken into before, and they will be again until visible cameras are installed,” added a supporter named Joshua.
Now Toronto reached out to UTSC for comment but did not receive a response in time for publication.
TORONTO POLICE ANNOUNCE ARREST
On Wednesday, Detective Sgt. Stacey McCabe announced in a press conference that Toronto police had arrested and charged 28-year-old Babatunde Afuwape, of Toronto, with first-degree murder in connection with Avasthi’s death.
McCabe said the attack may have been random.
“Based on our investigation, we do not believe that the accused and the victim were known to each other,” McCabe said. “It is our belief that this was a planned and deliberate act by the accused, and we have not yet determined a motive for why Shivank was targeted.”
Police say Afuwape was on campus for at least an hour before the shooting and may have interacted with other people. McCabe also confirmed that he was on parole for previous firearm offences.
Authorities are asking anyone who may have seen Afuwape or interacted with him on Dec. 23 to contact police.
