Police in the United States have launched a major manhunt after a 28-year-old man from Telangana was lured to his death using a fake pizza order. Anshul Kuncha, who had been living in America for nearly four years, was shot in the back of the head while attempting to deliver three pizzas to what turned out to be an empty house. Investigators are now offering a $20,000 reward for any information that leads to an arrest.

A deadly lure and a digital trail

The investigation has shifted focus to a single phone number. Chief Inspector Scott Small confirmed that detectives have identified the caller who placed the order for the three pizzas. The call led Anshul to a vacant unit at the Raymond Rosen Homes in North Philadelphia just after midnight on Friday.

Inside the empty building, police found the three pizza boxes and a delivery bag untouched, suggesting Anshul had completed the delivery before being ambushed outside. He was found bleeding heavily in a courtyard. Officers discovered three shell casings just inches from his body, a chilling sign that the killers were standing very close when they opened fire. While cameras did not capture the shooting, they did film two people in dark clothing following Anshul as he carried the pizza boxes. One of the suspects was seen carrying a dark backpack.

A sister’s warning: “Do not send your children”

In Hyderabad, the victim’s family is struggling to understand why a “loving and joyful person” was targeted. His sister, Tanvi, has described the incident as a “trap” designed solely to take her brother’s life. She revealed that Anshul did not even want to go to the United States originally, but the family sent him anyway to pursue his dreams.

“It was a trap, meant solely to kill him,” Tanvi told media. Her grief has turned into a stark warning for other Indian families. She urged parents to think twice before sending their children abroad, saying, “He didn’t want to go either, but he did, and look where it got him. Do not send your children to the US.” The family is now waiting for his body to be returned so they can perform his final rites.

The race to bring him home

The tragedy has sparked a political reaction in India, with leaders calling for better protection for students and workers abroad. Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan described the death as “agonising” and noted that a young man with many hopes and dreams has been lost. He confirmed that state governments are working with the Ministry of External Affairs to intervene.

The Indian Consulate in New York is currently in contact with the family to provide assistance.