Last rites of Dallas shooting victim today

Hyderabad: The mortal remains of Thatikonda Aishwarya, who died in the Dallas shooting incident, were all set to arrive in the city around midnight, as per information available at the time of filing this report, according to her relatives.

Her final rites will be performed in Nagole on Thursday.

Ashok Kolla, the treasurer for the Telugu Association of North America (Tana), told Deccan Chronicle that it took more than eight hours for the victim to be traced, after she was reported missing.

Kolla and other volunteers of the organisation started searching hospitals and when they could not locate her, went to the Allen Premium Outlets Mall, where the shooting took place, but to no avail.

Upon finally approaching the Collin County medical examiner’s office, they were asked for a clue that could identify Aishwarya, following which he shared a photo of the woman.

An official at the office then told them that one of the bodies bore similarities to the photo and upon collecting fingerprints and running a scan, it was confirmed to be Aishwarya’s body.

Kolla said that Aishwarya wore earrings and also had a scar on an eye, but it was difficult to confirm the body due to injuries. “They have a system of collecting fingerprints while entering this country,” Kolla said.

After completing the formalities for transporting Aishwarya’s mortal remains on a flight, Kolla took to social media to explain the turn of events.

“I am deeply saddened by the senseless act of violence…On behalf of Tana, I want to express our support and solidarity with all those affected and especially to our own Aishwarya Thatikonda and her family. We understand that this is a difficult time for you and your loved ones. Please know that we are here for you,” he wrote.

He also thanked friends and cousins of Aishwarya for taking part in the process to expedite the paperwork and also officials of the Collin County and Consulate General of India.

“Last but not least, thanks to our own team square volunteers and special thanks to two of our volunteers, Chandrasekhar Seeda and Pavan Kalyan Bommena who drove to Houston consulate in the night for processing paper work late night. Stay safe (sic),” wrote Kolla.