India Tribune Newsdesk
Houston, TX: Just weeks after completing his master’s degree, 22-year-old Anurup Reddy Koduru, an Indian student in the United States, lost his life in a tragic act of bravery that saved three others. The incident occurred on May 29 at the Toledo Bend Reservoir along the Texas–Louisiana border, where Anurup had gone with friends for an outing.
An accomplished swimmer, Anurup did not hesitate when he noticed three of his friends struggling in the water near the dam’s spillway. He quickly entered the reservoir and successfully guided all three to safety. However, as he attempted to return, his feet became entangled in fishing gear, reportedly a line or net, preventing his escape. Strong currents in the area pulled him underwater, and despite rescue efforts by multiple local and state agencies, his body was later recovered from a depth of about 20 feet.
Authorities, including Sabine Parish Sheriff Aaron Mitchell, confirmed the drowning and detailed the circumstances of the incident. The Consulate General of India in Houston expressed condolences and stated it is assisting the grieving family with necessary procedures.
Originally from Hyderabad, Anurup had recently graduated from the University of North Texas with a degree in Computer Science. Known for his academic excellence, he actively participated in hackathons and had earned recognition in competitions like HackUNT. He had also secured a job opportunity in the United States and was preparing to begin his professional career.
Before moving to the United States for higher studies, Koduru completed his engineering degree at Guru Nanak Institutions in Hyderabad.
In an appeal seeking support to repatriate his body to India, his brother, Ashrith Reddy Koduru, described Anurup as a "true hero" who gave his life while saving others. The family said its immediate priority is to bring his body back to India for final rites.
The online fundraiser, launched to cover repatriation, legal documentation and transportation expenses, had raised more than $170,000 of its $200,000 goal from over 5,000 donations as of June 1.
While his death was tragic, Koduru is being remembered for a final act of courage that saved three lives.
(With the input of News Dispatches)
