A California woman was fatally shot outside a Sacramento County Panera Bread on Tuesday by an individual identified by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) as an illegal immigrant who had stalked her for months. The alleged assailant, identified as Rohit Rohit, a native of India, died by suicide at the scene after shooting Shalini Thakur, 38.
According to DHS, Rohit approached Thakur near her car, pursued her when she attempted to flee, and then shot her before driving away. Responding officers located Rohit, who then took his own life with a firearm. DHS asserted that the tragedy could have been avoided if the Biden administration had not released Rohit into the country, stating, "Sanctuary politicians must put an end to reckless policies that play Russian roulette with American lives."
Thakur had a restraining order against Rohit, who had allegedly stalked her since at least January. Reports indicate Rohit worked as a DoorDash delivery driver and would frequent her residence. Thakur's mother told ABC 10 that her daughter had repeatedly contacted police about Rohit's behavior. Authorities allege Rohit had planted an Apple AirTag under the hood of her car, coerced her into marriage, and prevented her from socializing. He also reportedly deflated her car tires, followed her to work, and at one point obtained a copy of her apartment key to enter her home while she slept.
Rohit reportedly entered the United States illegally through Arizona in August 2023. He was arrested by U.S. Border Patrol but was subsequently released under a Biden administration policy that allows migrants into the U.S. pending a court date. DoorDash did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
This incident highlights ongoing debates surrounding immigration policies and border security. The DHS also noted the introduction of new electric-shock gloves intended to enhance the safety of federal border agents.