AirTag, Duplicate Key: Stalker Chases, Kills Indian-Origin Woman In California - NDTV

**California Shooting – Indian‑Origin Woman Killed After Months of Stalking**

Sacramento police on Wednesday announced that Shalini Thakur, a 33‑year‑old Indian‑origin software engineer, was found dead from a gunshot wound inside her home in the Arden‑Arcade neighborhood. The victim’s body was discovered after a neighbor reported hearing gunfire shortly after 10 p.m. on June 12, 2024. Investigators say the shooting was the culmination of a prolonged stalking campaign that began at least six months earlier, during which the suspect repeatedly followed Thakur’s movements and attempted to gain entry to her residence.

Forensic analysis of the crime scene revealed a duplicate house key and an Apple AirTag hidden in a small container near the front door, both of which were linked to the accused. The AirTag’s Bluetooth pings placed the suspect within a few meters of Thakur’s home on multiple occasions, confirming that the device was used to monitor her whereabouts. According to the Department of Homeland Security, the suspect – identified as 30‑year‑old **Rohit Sharma**, an Indian national who entered the United States without inspection in late 2023 – had no lawful immigration status. Sharma is believed to have constructed the key from a lock‑pick kit he purchased online and used the AirTag to coordinate his approach.

Law‑enforcement officials disclosed that Sacramento County deputies had obtained probable cause to arrest Sharma weeks before the fatal shooting, stemming from an earlier confrontation at a Panera Bread outlet where he allegedly brandished a firearm. The case was initially placed under investigation for “domestic‑violence‑related” threats, but the lack of immediate evidence delayed the arrest. Following Thakur’s death, a grand jury indicted Sharma on charges of first‑degree murder, stalking, illegal possession of a firearm, and immigration fraud. Sheriff’s officials emphasized that the case underscores the growing threat posed by technology‑enabled stalking and urged the public to report suspicious surveillance activities promptly.

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