From gofundme
The Kamloops community is mourning the tragic loss of Jatin Garg, a 27-year-old international student at Thompson Rivers University, whose body was recovered from the Thompson River on July 15 following a nine-day search effort.
Garg, originally from India, had come to Canada in August 2024 with hopes of building a better future. His journey was tragically cut short on the evening of July 6, when he entered the river near Overlander Park to retrieve a volleyball and was swept away by a strong undercurrent. Two friends who attempted to save him were pulled in as well but were rescued by emergency crews. Garg did not resurface.
In the wake of the devastating loss, friends and members of the TRU community have launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral costs and to send Jatin’s body back to his grieving family in India. “It is with broken hearts that we share the devastating loss of our dear friend Jatin Garg… He was only 27 years old, full of dreams, kindness, and warmth,” reads the campaign page. “Please consider donating to help honor his memory and support his loved ones through this unimaginable time. Every dollar, every share, and every prayer means the world.”
RCMP confirmed that Garg’s body was located near MacArthur Island on the morning of July 15. His family in India has been notified through the RCMP’s Foreign Domestic Liaison Unit. “We hope that his discovery can bring a small amount of closure for his family and friends,” said Sgt. Chris Kienzle of Kamloops RCMP.
The loss of Jatin Garg has deeply shaken the TRU and international student communities. Friends describe him as warm, cheerful, and always eager to lend a hand. Despite being in Canada for less than a year, he left a lasting impression on those around him.
Search efforts involved multiple agencies, including Kamloops Fire Rescue, the RCMP Underwater Recovery Team, and Kamloops Search and Rescue. Authorities had previously warned of the dangers of river currents in the area, particularly for those unfamiliar with the unpredictable conditions. “Let’s stand together for Jatin and show that love and humanity know no borders,” the fundraiser urges.
The GoFundMe campaign is seeking community support to ensure Jatin receives a dignified farewell and can be laid to rest in his homeland. The initial goal was $13,000, but as donations have poured in it was updated on Thursday to $28,000.
To donate or learn more, visit the GoFundMe page for Jatin Garg.
