UPDATE: The body of missing University of California, Berkeley student Saketh Sreenivasaiah has been recovered from Lake Anza by divers from the Alameda County Sheriff’s Office. This tragic discovery comes just days after the 22-year-old international student was reported missing on February 10, 2026.
The devastating news was confirmed on February 14, as authorities undertook a search operation following concerns raised by friends and the community. Baneet Singh, Sreenivasaiah’s roommate, shared insights into his friend’s mental health struggles in a heartfelt post on LinkedIn, urging people to check on loved ones during tough times.
“Take this as a reminder to please reach out to your loved ones and make sure they’re okay,” Singh implored, reflecting the emotional weight of this loss.
According to reports, Sreenivasaiah had been exhibiting signs of distress, having invited Singh to Lake Anza just weeks prior. Singh noted a troubling change in Sreenivasaiah’s behavior, stating he had begun “eating less and engaging less, only surviving on chips and cookies” during the last weeks of his life.
Authorities confirmed that the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office was involved in identifying the body, which was positively confirmed as Sreenivasaiah’s on February 16. The Consulate General of India in San Francisco expressed its condolences in a post on X, stressing their readiness to assist Sreenivasaiah’s family, including repatriation arrangements.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones during this profoundly difficult time,” the Consulate stated, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
Sreenivasaiah was pursuing a Master’s Degree in chemical and biomolecular engineering at the university, a path that showcased his academic dedication and potential. Singh is reportedly working with officials to facilitate emergency visas for Sreenivasaiah’s parents to travel to the U.S. for support during this tragic time.
This heartbreaking event has resonated deeply within the university community, prompting discussions about mental health awareness and support systems for students. The Berkeley Police Department had initially reported Sreenivasaiah’s disappearance on February 12, igniting a wave of concern and outreach from fellow students and faculty.
The loss of Saketh Sreenivasaiah serves as a stark reminder of the challenges many face, often hidden beneath the surface. As the UC Berkeley community mourns, the urgent conversation around mental health and accessible support must continue, ensuring that no student faces such struggles alone.
This developing story is still being monitored, and further details will be shared as they become available. For now, the focus remains on supporting Sreenivasaiah’s family and friends during this unimaginably difficult time.
