Dallas, Texas: Deepthi Vangavolu, a 24-year-old Telugu student from Telangana, remains in critical condition after a devastating hit-and-run crash in Dallas on March 3, 2025.
She was struck by an intoxicated driver while in a vehicle with friends, sparking widespread concern and a wave of support from the Indian-American community.
Key Facts:
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March 3, 2025: Deepthi Vangavolu was hit by an alleged drunk driver in Dallas.
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Critical Condition: She is on life support and receiving intensive medical care.
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Fundraiser Launched: Friends and the Telugu community have begun raising funds for her treatment.
The incident occurred at a stoplight when a speeding car driven by an intoxicated individual rammed into Deepthi’s vehicle and fled the scene.
Authorities later identified and arrested the driver, who faces serious charges.
Deepthi was rushed to a local hospital with traumatic injuries and remains in the ICU.
Her friends in Dallas, along with Telugu associations, initiated a fundraiser to support her medical expenses, which have already crossed tens of thousands of dollars.
The Indian consulate in Houston is closely monitoring the case and offering assistance to the family.
The tragedy has reignited discussions about road safety and the vulnerability of international students in the U.S., especially those navigating life away from home without immediate family.
The Telugu diaspora in the U.S. has responded with empathy, sharing the campaign widely and organizing prayer events.
The case underscores the urgent need for responsible driving and better safeguards for students abroad. Donations continue to pour in, with community leaders calling for stronger penalties in DUI hit-and-run cases.
Updates on Deepthi’s recovery and the legal proceedings are expected in the coming weeks.
Do You Know?
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, more than 25% of all traffic deaths in the state involve alcohol-impaired drivers.
(Source: Texas DOT)
Key Terms:
Hit-and-Run: A crash where the at-fault driver flees without helping the injured or reporting the incident.
DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Operating a vehicle with impaired judgment due to alcohol or drugs.
Life Support: Machines or medication that keep vital body functions running when a patient can't survive on their own.
Diaspora: People who have spread or been dispersed from their homeland to other countries, often maintaining cultural ties.