A woman was tragically killed outside a Panera Bread in Sacramento, California, on September 8, after being pursued and fatally shot by a man she had reported for stalking. The incident, captured on surveillance video, shows Shalini Thakur, 38, running from her attacker, Rohit Rohit, 22, before he shot her multiple times, including a final shot to the head at close range as she lay on the ground. The attack occurred shortly before 3 p.m. near a shopping mall on Howe Avenue.
Details of the Fatal Attack
According to Lieutenant Amar Gandhi of the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office, Rohit approached Thakur at the mall and began to confront her. As Thakur attempted to flee, Rohit pursued her, produced a firearm, and fired repeatedly. After she fell, he approached her body and fired again at her head. Deputies responded to the scene and, upon locating Rohit as he fled in his vehicle, observed him stop and appear to die from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Homicide detectives are continuing their investigation into the events leading up to the murder.
History of Stalking and Harassment
Investigators learned that Rohit had been harassing and stalking Thakur for months after meeting her through his work as a DoorDash delivery driver, often picking up orders from her workplace. The pattern of concerning behavior began as early as January when Thakur discovered an Apple AirTag hidden on her car. Rohit’s actions escalated, including deflating her tires and following her to work, only to offer assistance. He also gained access to her apartment and entered while she was asleep, later claiming it was a welfare check after she hadn’t responded to his messages.
The escalating harassment led Thakur to obtain a restraining order against Rohit. Despite this, he continued to violate the order, including leaving random grocery items at her doorstep in July.
Immigration Status and Prior Arrests
Rohit, who illegally entered the United States from India in 2023, was reportedly arrested by U.S. Border Patrol agents in Arizona in August 2023. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), he was subsequently released into the country by the Biden administration. A DHS spokesperson stated that such tragedies could be avoided if policies allowed for better cooperation with immigration enforcement, suggesting that sanctuary policies in some jurisdictions hinder efforts to deport individuals like Rohit.
Sources indicated that Rohit had obtained a Social Security number and passed background checks to work for DoorDash. However, he had not made deliveries for over six weeks prior to the murder and was not active on the platform on the day of the attack.
DoorDash and Law Enforcement Response
A spokesperson for DoorDash expressed deep condolences to Thakur’s family and stated the company is fully cooperating with the ongoing police investigation. The company emphasized its zero-tolerance policy for violence and harassment and encouraged users to report any unwanted attention through the app or contact law enforcement if they feel unsafe.
The Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office has urged anyone with information regarding the case to contact them at 916-874-5115.
Family’s Grief and Victim’s Legacy
Shalini Thakur’s mother, Kumari Thakur, described her daughter as her only child and expressed profound grief, stating she is now alone in the world. She recounted speaking with her daughter less than an hour before the attack, with plans for another call that never happened. Kumari Thakur conveyed her anguish and worry, lamenting that police could not protect her daughter despite the restraining orders.
Friends and family remembered Shalini Thakur as a caring, loving, selfless, and generous individual who was always willing to help those in need. Her kindness left a significant impact on many, and her presence was deeply valued by those who knew and loved her. A fundraising page has been established to help cover funeral expenses.
Conclusion
The murder of Shalini Thakur highlights the devastating consequences of stalking and the complex issues surrounding immigration enforcement. The investigation is ongoing, with authorities seeking any additional information from the public to bring closure to this tragic event.
