The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that Shalini Thakur, 38, was fatally shot on Tuesday outside a Panera Bread in Sacramento County. Thakur was standing near her car when Rohit Rohit, an illegal immigrant from India who had been stalking her for months, approached, chased her as she tried to flee, and shot her in the head.

Background of the suspect

Rohit entered the United States illegally through Arizona in August 2023 and was arrested by U.S. Border Patrol. He was released under a Biden administration policy that allows migrants to remain in the country after receiving a court date. After his release, Rohit began a campaign of harassment against Thakur, who knew him as a DoorDash delivery driver who would park outside her home for hours and talk to her daily.

According to ABC 10, Thakur obtained a restraining order against Rohit in May, but the harassment continued. He allegedly placed an Apple AirTag under the hood of her car in January, deflated her tires, followed her to work, and even obtained a copy of her apartment key to enter her home while she slept. He also tried to coerce her into marriage and threatened to shoot himself or anyone she met.

Police response and aftermath

Police officers arrived on the scene and pursued Rohit, who fled in a vehicle. He later took his own life with a firearm, authorities said. Thakur’s mother, Sudesh Kumari, expressed frustration, stating that her daughter had repeatedly called police for help but received no protection.

DHS reaction and policy criticism

A DHS spokesperson blamed the tragedy on the Biden administration’s immigration policies, saying, “This tragedy would have been completely avoided if it weren’t for the Biden Administration releasing this killer into our country. Sanctuary politicians must put an end to reckless policies that play Russian roulette with American lives.” The spokesperson called for an end to sanctuary policies that, in their view, endanger public safety.

Community impact

The incident has sparked concern among Sacramento residents about public safety and the enforcement of immigration laws. Local leaders and community members are calling for stricter immigration enforcement and better protection for victims of stalking.

DoorDash has not responded to requests for comment.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.